BUILDING A BRIGHTER
FUTURE BEYOND PRISON
At 3Pillars Project we use rugby‑based mentoring to help people in custody and after release thrive in their communities. We believe everyone deserves a second chance and the support they need to rebuild their lives.
Who We Are
Founded in 2016, the 3 Pillars Project emerged from a transformative rugby programme at Feltham Young Offender Institution, igniting our vision to harness the power of sport for rehabilitation. Our journey began with a pilot in Wandsworth, and since then, we have expanded our reach, delivering impactful programmes across multiple prisons and establishing community academies that foster growth and opportunity.
At the heart of our mission is the commitment to develop the most effective sports-based mentoring programme for young people in custody and post-release. We believe in the potential of every individual, and our values of Courage, Ambition, Respect, and Empowerment guide our approach, ensuring that we nurture not just skills, but character.
Our methodology is built upon three foundational pillars: Exercise, Education, and Ethos. Through physical activity, rugby and sport, we promote physical well-being; through education, we provide qualifications and training; and through mentoring, we instil essential values that empower young people to thrive. This holistic approach aligns with our Theory of Change, guiding participants from pre-contemplation to maintenance of positive behaviours.
The impact of our programmes speaks volumes. We proudly report that 97% of participants have improved their relationships, 86% have increased their resilience, and 92% have experienced enhanced self-esteem. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent lives transformed and futures reimagined.
Our dedicated team is the backbone of our success. Comprising passionate leaders, trustees, and frontline mentors, each member plays a vital role in delivering our mission. Together, we create a supportive environment that champions the potential of every young person we work with. Join us in this journey, as we continue to build partnerships and seek support to expand our reach and impact.
Our Story: A Timeline of Progress
Our journey began in 2015, driven by a vision to use sports for rehabilitation. Since then, we've evolved significantly, impacting lives across various institutions.
2015
Founding and Vision
In 2015, we were founded with a mission to harness the power of sport for rehabilitation. Our initial programme at Feltham YOI set the foundation for our future.
2016
Early Success
In 2016, we celebrated our early successes, refining our programme design based on feedback and outcomes. This year marked the beginning of our impactful journey.
2022
Growth and Expansion
By 2022, we had expanded our reach, implementing programmes in multiple prisons and community settings. Our commitment to rehabilitation continued to strengthen.
2025
3Pillars Project Today
Looking ahead to 2025, we aim to further enhance our programmes and expand our impact. Our vision remains steadfast: to empower young people through sports-based mentoring.
Our Three Pillars of Transformation
At the heart of our approach are the three pillars: Exercise, Education, and Ethos. These elements work together to foster resilience and create lasting change in the lives of young people.
Exercise
Building Strength and Confidence
Through Sport, particularly rugby we improve wellbeing and build positive teams.
Education
Unlocking Potential Through Learning
We provide qualifications and training to enhance future opportunities.
Ethos
Mentoring for Personal Growth
Our mentoring programme instills core values, life skills and mindset.
Our Core Values
RESPECT
We have to respect everyone we meet for them to respect us.
EACH OF US IS UNIQUE
Each person we meet has lived a different life and has a different set of opportunities before them.
TRUTH
Only I can change my life. No one else can do it for me and I can’t do it for them.
DETERMINATION
Making a change stick is hard work and takes determination.
COURAGE
Changing our lives means taking a risk, which requires courage.
Transforming Lives Through Sports Mentoring
At 3 Pillars Project, we measure our success through the positive changes we see in the lives of young people. Our programmes have shown remarkable results, with 97% of participants reporting improved relationships, 86% demonstrating increased resilience, and 92% experiencing enhanced self-esteem. These statistics reflect our commitment to empowering youth through sports-based mentoring.
Enhanced Self-Esteem
Improved Relationships
Increased Resilience
Our Squad
Meet the dedicated individuals behind our mission.
Mike, ex-Army Officer with 8 years of service, founded a youth mentorship project after volunteering in 2015. He holds a BA in Politics and an MRes in Strategy & Security.
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Jen, a former rugby player and coach, champions sport's community impact. With an MSc in Sociology of Sport, she fosters partnerships for charity.
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Gen, a qualified behavioral coach and author, transitioned from prison officer to innovator in criminal justice since 2020.
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Passionate about sports, Sarah has 15 years of youth work experience and previously supported vulnerable youth in A&E settings.
Peter, a therapeutic counselor, brings military and renewable energy experience from 2020-2022, dedicated to supporting young men in custody.
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Fay, a Post Release Programme Lead, swam the English Channel solo and completed multiple Ironman events. Passionate about inspiring others, she raised her son to shine brightly.
Joe, a former rugby pro (10 years), champions sport's power for good. With a degree in Leadership and a passion for community work, he leads partnerships at 3 Pillars Project.
Theone, London Programme Lead, mentors young men in custody, leveraging 10+ years in sports science to inspire self-respect and structure.
Eloise, a former prison officer and sports enthusiast, empowers others through coaching and sport. She has over six years in criminal justice and completed an MSc in Leadership in Custodial Environments.
Katy, a PhD researcher at Loughborough University, is passionate about social justice and has six years of experience in Physical Education and community coaching.
Semi-Pro Rugby player Pickle leads youth programs in Nottingham, aiming to inspire children through sports. He has enjoyed coaching vulnerable kids since 2023 alongside 3Pillars.
Lee, a former Production Manager with 20+ years in construction, now mentors others through rugby coaching and life rebuilding.
Ex-Royal Marines and Special Forces veteran, Adam led security at National Grid, Unilever, and GSK, and holds a master's from Kings College, London.
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