Safeguarding Policy

Safeguarding is a fundamental part of the work carried out by The 3 Pillars. Many of the people we support may be vulnerable, and it is essential that all volunteers help maintain a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.

National Safeguarding Policy

The official safeguarding policy for The 3 Pillars – Feeding the Homeless (Charity No. 1173518) is provided by the national charity.

Volunteers should read the full policy here:

Download the HQ Safeguarding Policy (PDF)

The local guidance below operates alongside the national safeguarding policy.

Safeguarding Local Addendum – Dunstable Branch

Adopted: 26 February 2026

3 Pillars – Dunstable formally adopts the HQ Safeguarding Policy in full. This addendum does not replace the HQ policy but provides local reporting contacts and operational clarification relevant to the Dunstable branch.

1. Local Safeguarding Responsibilities

Branch Safeguarding Officer:

Gurjeet Singh Malhotra

Branch Lead:

Simon Barter

All volunteers must report any safeguarding concern immediately to the Branch Safeguarding Officer.

If unavailable, concerns must be reported to the Branch Lead, who will escalate the matter appropriately.

2. Reporting Pathway

Volunteer → Branch Safeguarding Officer → HQ Safeguarding Contact (if required)

In cases of immediate danger or medical emergency, call 999.

For non-emergency police matters call 101.

Central Bedfordshire Council

Adult Safeguarding: 0300 300 8122

Children’s Services: 0300 300 8585

Out of Hours: 0300 300 8123

3. Operational Safeguarding Controls

To ensure the safety of both guests and volunteers:

• A minimum of two volunteers must be present at all times

• No lone working is permitted

• Private conversations must take place within sight of other volunteers

• Volunteers must not provide:

• Personal contact details

• Money

• Medication

• Alcohol

• Personal transport

• Personal relationships with service users

4. Record Keeping

Any safeguarding concern must be recorded in writing and provided to the Branch Safeguarding Officer as soon as possible.

Records will be handled confidentially and shared only with appropriate safeguarding authorities or HQ trustees where necessary.

5. Review

This addendum will be reviewed annually, or sooner if operational changes occur.

Approved by:

Simon Barter

Branch Chairman – The 3 Pillars – Dunstable

Approval Date: 26 February 2026