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Budget Pressures Facing the UK Housing and Homeless Hostel Sector in 2025-26

Introduction

As we enter the new financial year for 2025/6, organisations across the UK that provide housing and homelessness support are grappling with unprecedented budget pressures. A perfect storm of funding cuts, inflation, and surging demand for services is straining housing associations, charities, and homeless hostels. Many are warning that without relief, vital services could be scaled back or even shut down.

In response, service providers are exploring innovative ways to reduce costs while maintaining both their safeguarding obligations and adhering to service delivery. Implementing solutions such as outsourcing both day and night provision, funding the use of security guards and concierge through different funding streams. Roaming concierge, remote CCTV monitoring, and ASB emergency response services provide flexible, scalable safeguarding options that fit within restrictive budgets without compromising safety standards.

Funding Cuts and Tightening Budgets

Public funding for homelessness and supported housing services has been under intense strain, making it increasingly difficult for organisations to maintain essential services. Several local authorities have recently proposed deep cuts to homelessness programmes to plug their own budget gaps. For example, Devon, Hampshire, and Leicestershire County councils announced plans in late 2023 to implement severe financial cuts due to ongoing economic constraints.

Unfortunately, these cuts come at a time when rough sleeping and homelessness rates are rising, leading to concerns about the long-term sustainability of essential services. With traditional funding sources shrinking, housing providers are being forced to make tough decisions to maintain security, service levels, and staff well-being despite tighter budgets.

Inflation: The Cost-of-Living Squeeze

The UK Governments ongoing battle with inflation has compounded the budget crisis for housing and homelessness providers. The UK experienced a 40-year high in inflation, peaking at 11.1% in October 2022. For charities and hostels, this resulted in significantly higher costs for essentials like energy, food, and staff wages – without equivalent increases in funding.

Service providers are now being forced to find innovative ways to cut operational expenses while still protecting residents and staff. Cost-saving security solutions, such as integrated surveillance, specialist security guards and mobile patrols, have helped housing associations and hostel operators reduce staffing costs while maintaining a strong security presence.

Increasing Demand for Homelessness Services

At the same time, demand for homelessness and housing support is reaching unprecedented levels. The economic fallout of the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis have pushed more people to the brink, leading to rising homelessness across the UK. Official statistics show that in the latest year (2023-24), over 324,000 households in England approached their council for homelessness assistance – an 8% increase from the previous year. Since the Supporting People Programme Grant ringfence was removed, the funding model of the homeless sector has considerable changed. There has been a steady rise in Housing Benefit as the main source of funding, taking over as the most dominant funding source in the sector in 2017. Since the end of the Supporting People ringfence in 2008 there has been a 1700% increase in Housing Benefit as a funding source for homelessness accommodation and a 71% decrease in local authority commissioned services.

Smart Budget Saving Safeguarding & Security Solutions

With caseloads increasing and budgets under strain, below are some of the innovative safeguarding and security solutions that 360 Services are providing to our clients in the supported and temporary accommodation sector.

Roaming Safeguarding & Security Staff: Instead of paying for dedicated overnight cover, our teams are experienced at supporting several sites over a wide geographical area. Providing flexible coverage across multiple locations. This approach ensures cost savings while maintaining effective safeguarding of residents who present a lower safeguarding risk.
Outsourcing Support for Probation & Ex Offenders Accommodation: We have several clients who utilise our Safeguarding Officers, to provide specialist support around the reintegration of ex-offenders into the community. These residents tend to have relatively low overnight support needs. Outsourcing night cover to 360 Service represents a financial benefit for our clients, whilst ensuring residents whereabouts can be monitored, any additional support needs both identified and provided, and our clients can confirm that any probation conditions placed on their residents are being complied with.
Remote CCTV Monitoring: Advances in technology are enabling housing providers to remotely monitor semi-independent sites via CCTV cameras, reducing the need for on-site personnel. Surveillance feeds are watched by officers who specialise and are experienced at safeguarding the needs of vulnerable people. This ensures continuous monitoring for both Anti-Social Behaviour and safeguarding concerns. With rapid responses from specialist in safeguarding vulnerable people, where a concern is noticed. This allows for trained staff to be on site only when needed and reduces the high costs associated with 24/7 on-site personnel.
Emergency Response Services: Emergency response services assist sites when issues arise. These services operate on a per-call basis, ensuring cost-effectiveness while maintaining rapid incident resolution. Response personnel handle a wide range of issues, including security breaches, anti-social behaviour, and urgent health and safety site inspections, allowing housing providers to address safeguarding concerns efficiently while optimising budgetary resources. This service is increasingly being used by our clients to resolve ASB and noise complaints raised by neighbours.

Through strategic partnerships, or innovative safeguarding and security measures have helped organisations maintain the security and efficiency of their sites whilst working within budget constraints.

A Balanced Approach to Safety and Sustainability

Ultimately, the UK’s housing and homelessness sector in 2025-26 is walking a tightrope: trying to balance increasing, longer-term demand with shrinking financial resources. Funding cuts and high inflation have created a budget crunch at the worst possible time, just as the homelessness crisis worsens.

By adopting efficient security safeguarding strategies, organisations can ensure reliable safety while maintaining financial sustainability. 360 Services will continue to work alongside housing providers to deliver bespoke solutions that meet their unique needs. A strategic approach helps housing associations and hostels maintain security and stability in uncertain financial times.

For organisations seeking dependable and cost-effective security solutions, exploring roaming security, remote CCTV, and emergency response services can offer vital support in these challenging times.

360 Services supplies security guards and night concierge Dartford, Berkshire oxford, Kent, Greater Manchester, reading, Coventry and throughout most of England. We are a provider of office security in Dartford and Kent

References

Inside Housing – “County councils move to scrap ‘vital’ homelessness funding” (24 Nov 2023).
Inside Housing – “Leicestershire hostel closure due to funding cut” (2023).
House of Commons Library – Rising cost of living in the UK (July 2024).
Crisis – Statutory homelessness in England 2023-24 (Press release, Aug 2024).
Westminster Council – Housing Committee report (Mar 2023), roaming security pilot details.
LocalGov – Your Source for the Latest News From The Sector
WCCTV (Wireless CCTV Ltd) – Benefits of Remote CCTV Monitoring.
Securitas case study – WATMOS Housing Association CCTV analytics trial (2023).
www.360-services.co.uk A Safeguarding & Security Company based in Dartford.

A Day In the Life of Muhammad Butt

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF MUHAMMAD BUTT

Meet Muhammad, a dedicated Security Officer/Safeguarding Officer at 360 Services. His role is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and staff at his assigned site. Muhammad takes pride in his ability to handle challenges, support vulnerable individuals, and maintain a secure environment. Here’s what he had to share about his experience.

Why did you start working with 360 Services?

I saw 360 Services as a great opportunity to develop my career in security and facilities management. I wanted to work in an environment where I could contribute to the safety and well-being of vulnerable people. 360 Services has a strong reputation in the industry, and I wanted to be part of a professional team. I was also looking for a role that offered stability, variety, and the chance to gain valuable experience in security services.

What does your job involve?

I ensure the safety and security of the premises, staff, and residents by monitoring access, conducting patrols, and handling any incidents that arise. My job involves de-escalating conflicts, supporting vulnerable individuals, and ensuring a safe environment for residents in hostels and supported accommodation. I help maintain the property, report issues, and ensure everything is functioning properly to provide a comfortable living space. I’m trained to respond to emergencies, including medical situations, fire alarms, or security breaches, ensuring a quick and effective resolution.

Describe some of the training that you received in order to do your job better?

I completed my Security Industry Authority (SIA) training, covering security operations, conflict management, and emergency procedures. I recently was requested to complete a Fire Marshall qaulification. I also received training in First Aid, Safeguarding Vulnerable Individuals, and Fire Safety Measures.

What do you find rewarding about your job?

Helping people in difficult situations and ensuring their safety gives me a sense of purpose. I enjoy interacting with residents and staff, building trust, and maintaining a positive work environment. Dealing with challenges and resolving them effectively has also helped me grow professionally.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to spend my spare time cooking, exploring new recipes and sharing that with my friends. I also love to go out and explore, listen to music, watch movies and hangout with friends.

What’s the biggest lesson you have learned working with us?

I’ve learned the importance of patience and teamwork. Every day is different, requiring adaptability and quick thinking. I now have a deeper understanding of how crucial security and safeguarding are in supported housing environments.

A Day In the Life of Olaleye Adeboye

Meet Olaleye Adeboye. He has worked with 360 Services for just over 2 years now. He has worked at multiple St Mungo sites and our Security Site Cory Environmental. Cory is one of the UK’s leading recycling and waste management companies. Cory receives around 900,000 tonnes of non-recyclable black bag waste a year. Olaleye exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated employee. His journey over the past 2 years highlights his commitment to service and the positive impact he has on every site he works at.

Why did you start working with 360 Services?

I was recommended by a good friend of mine to apply for a job with 360 Services. As soon as I went through the interviewing process where the role was explained to me in further detail I was immediately sold on the job.

What does your job involve?

My job is multi-layered as I work at different sites which all have different responsibilities. However, my main role is based at Cory Environmental. Its a 5000 sq ft area with about 4 different companies inside. Cory’s key purpose is to recycle waste and transfer it into energy and construction materials. My main duty is to ensure the site is always secure, monitor incoming and outgoing vehicles, keep vigilant, and ensure health and safety procedures are being followed. I conduct regular health checks and assist the management team on site.

Describe some of the training that you received in order to do your job better?

When I first started at Cory I received in-depth training, it was made very clear to me what I needed to do to do my job to the best of my abilities. We also receive an in-depth Vulnerable Adults course which I partake in twice a year. The sessions are always informative and helpful.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to spend time with my kids. They are quite young so I really try to be as active as possible in their lives whilst they are at this age.

What do you find rewarding about your job?

I take great pride in attending to our client’s needs and going above and beyond to meet their expectations.

What’s your most proud moment working with us?

I‘ve had many proud moments working with 360 Services, but I would say my proudest moment was when I found out that off the back of my work the company managed to secure some extra work.

What’s the biggest lesson you have learned working with us?

Being dedicated to your job, understanding the importance of being consistent. Always look to be pro-active instead of re-active.

A Day In the Life of Sean McCauley

Welcome to our “A Day in the Life” blog, where we spotlight the dedicated members of our team. Today, we are featuring Sean McCauley, who has recently progressed to the role of Lead Concierge in the Reading area. Since joining us in October 2022, Sean has leveraged his robust security background to enhance our concierge and support worker services. With his extensive experience in security and specialised training on supporting vulnerable adults in homeless hostels, Sean brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion to his daily work.

Why did you start working with 360 Services?

I started working with 360 Services because of the strong rapport I immediately felt with the employees. From day one, I was welcomed and valued, receiving positive feedback that reassured me this was a place where my contributions mattered. Unlike many large organisations where you can feel like just another number, 360 Services made me feel integral to the team. This sense of belonging and appreciation motivated me to join and stay with this supportive workplace.

What does your job involve?

My job revolves around safeguarding our clients and being there for them in every sense. I listen to their concerns, offer support, and ensure their safety. It’s about being someone they can talk to and trust. My goal is to create a safe, open environment where they feel heard and valued, making sure they know they always have someone on their side.

Describe some of the training that you received to do your job better. How does our in-house training impact your role?

I received training on working with vulnerable adults, which covered detailed strategies for recognising their needs and ensuring their well-being. This training taught me how to identify signs of distress, understand the unique challenges they face, and provide the appropriate support and care. It emphasised the importance of empathy, patience and vigilance, equipping me with the skills necessary to better safeguard and assist the residents.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I love to unwind with spa breaks alongside my wife. It’s a great way for us to relax and reconnect. We’re also excited about our upcoming holiday to Cyprus, where we plan to explore, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and make the most of our time together.

What do you find rewarding about your job?

What I find most rewarding about my job is the opportunity to work with incredible colleagues and learn from their experiences. Collaborating with such a dedicated team enhances my own skills and knowledge. Additionally, helping out the residents and meeting their needs brings a deep sense of fulfilment. Knowing that I can make a positive impact on their lives every day is truly gratifying.

What’s your most proud moment working with us?

My proudest moment working with 360 Services was winning the Employee of the Month award. I was happy to be recognized for my hard work and dedication. This acknowledgment from the company and supervisors reaffirmed that my efforts to support our clients and collaborate with the team were making a meaningful impact. It surely isn’t something I was expecting, as not many companies do things like this anymore.

What’s the biggest lesson you have learned working with us?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned working with 360 Services is to never judge a person and to understand that everyone is not the same. This experience has taught me the importance of empathy and looking beyond the surface. Every individual has their own unique story and challenges, and it’s crucial to approach each person with an open mind and heart. By doing so, I’ve learned to provide better support and build stronger, more genuine connections with both clients and colleagues.

A Day In the Life of Angela Campbell

As part of our celebration of 10 Years of trading, 360 Services are highlighting the staff members and clients who have or who are still contributing to our success and continued growth.

Angela Campbell has been carrying out shifts for 360 Services since March 2020 and has worked over 700 shifts at Female Only hostels! Oladuni Odepidan started in April 2022 and since then has carried out nearly 300 shifts, and Olga Kreminska was employed in July 2019 and has carried out an amazing 800 shifts at various homeless hostel sites.

These 3 ladies have formed a formidable working relationship and are the core team for delivering our services on behalf of Housing for Women at their female only project in North London.

Housing for Women is a housing provider and charity with a mission to empower women and challenge inequality. They support women through affordable housing, helping women and children escaping domestic abuse, survivors of trafficking and women leaving prison. They have a long and proud history of providing supported and specialist services across London.

Angela had this to say about providing support on behalf of Housing for Women clients during both day and night shifts:

“I have to have good judgement in making quick on the spot decisions. There can be lots of different challenges dealing with clients with different issues, but experience and training has helped me to learn how best to support them, whilst ensuring their safeguarding and health and safety.

Keeping clients, staff and visitors safe as well as myself when I do my checks and patrols, are of extreme importance whilst all good practices are followed. I am always very professional when carrying out my duties by following all policies and procedures, regulations, guidelines and following all instructions from the Housing or Women staff.

I would say that I am very honest, direct, personally blunt and straight to the point, however, and most importantly, I am approachable and able to show understanding and empathy along the way.

Keeping both ears open to listen to all the clients with full communication, written and verbally, helps me to do the job to the best of my ability. I understand my job role fully but if I have any questions or concerns, I bring up with the team immediately. I have never been late in all the time I’ve worked at High Cross.

I am committed to doing my work in the best way that I can. I enjoy supporting the staff and clients. I am responsible and respectful across the board and it’s satisfying working within a trusted team at Housing for Women and 360 Services, who have both shown me that they value me, and my performance at work.”

All 3 ladies have shown a level of commitment that is valued by both 360 Services and the client. They work collaboratively with the Operations Team and the client to ensure that all shifts are carried out, communicating promptly and efficiently where and when needed. Continuity of staff and building solid trusting relationships with the clients under our care, is an important part of the services provided by 360.

Ayesha Johar, the Service Manager for the North London site said that the team provided ‘are working really well with us, the women trust them, and they are approachable and work well with the team of staff there’.

Formerly known as 365 Security, 360 Services has been trading since July 2014. Whilst providing both security and support staff for a variety of settings, we specialise in delivering services to Homeless Hostels & the Supported Accommodation sector across the whole of England & Wales.

Throughout this year of our 10th anniversary, we aim to celebrate our staff, highlighting the various issues facing the homeless throughout the UK and encourage both our staff and the public to support local charities with their efforts to reduce the impact of homelessness. For more information visit www.360-services.co.uk or www.h4w.org.uk

Contributing to 10 years of Success – Secuna Indjainancassa

As part of the celebration of 10 Years of trading, 360 Services are highlighting staff members and clients who have or are still contributing to our success and continued growth.

Secuna Indjainancassa has been delivering exceptional service at St Mungos Pownall Gardens – A long-term accommodation for single people who have experienced homelessness in West London.

Secuna joined 360 Services in July 2020 and since that time has completed over 1,000 shifts for 360 Services, over 800 of those at Pownall Gardens. In this time, thanks to the management team at St Mungo’s and Secuna’s dedicated leadership in the provision of overnight cover for the project. Pownall Gardens has undergone a complete transformation, which all parties involved, and the wider community can be proud of.

Secuna’s contribution to the success of the project has not gone unnoticed. Throughout his time at Pownall Gardens, he built an excellent rapport with the residents, inspiring many of them to adopt a healthier lifestyle. His promotion of a healthy lifestyle led to the construction of an outdoor gym area that was free for the residents to use. As a result, we saw a significant improvement in residents’ behaviour.

When St Mugos took over responsibility for the delivery the project in April 2019, 360 Services were immediately appointed to provide lone working Night Concierges to safeguard the residents and reduce the levels of anti-social behaviour on site.

Kuwayne Cain our Managing Director recalls, “In the first few months of delivering overnight supervision of the project, we identified high numbers of discarded needles in the grounds of the project. A garden shed where local drug users and dealers (not directly associated with the project) would gather at night to distribute and use illegal substances. Unauthorised visitors regularly being allowed into the project or trying to force their way into the project.

There was a suspicion that “cuckooing” was happening at the property and those undertaking anti-social activities were trying to intimidate staff to stop them from disrupting their activities.”

St Mungos made great efforts to clean up the environment of the project. A garden that residents and staff were wary of entering, due to the high number of needles and trespassers was transformed into a place where residents could relax, and trespassers found it difficult to enter.

Residents were encouraged to follow the rules and those unwilling to adopt to the new culture of the project were found alternative accommodation. Attempts to intimidate night staff reduced and Pownall Gardens has evolved into a project where anti-social behaviour is no longer an issue.

Sarah Jane-Malone, St Mungo’s Service Director for all Hounslow sites, said,

“Secuna was an absolute star in his time at Pownall. He supported the residents in the absence of staff, listened to what they had to say, and arranged activities for the clients of the evening. The feedback I got from staff was always positive, and they felt the building was in safe hands when Secuna was on duty. Incidents happened, but he always managed them well and did whatever he could to address the situation.”

The success of the work conducted by St Mungo’s and 360 Services overnight safeguarding team, meant that towards the end of 2023, when budgets were being reviewed it was decided that Pownall Gardens residents no longer required overnight support. In December 2023, Secuna was transferred to a project called Pound Lane to take over leading the overnight safeguarding for a North West London project that is delivered as a partnership between St Mungo’s and Look Ahead. The project has over 80 residents and 2 buildings – so, therefore, presents its own unique challenges to Night Concierge. However, with Secuna now leading the supervision we are confident that our night team can deliver the outcomes that the project is looking for.

360 Services has been trading since July 2014. Whilst providing both security and support staff for a variety of settings, we specialise in delivery services to Homeless Hostels & the Supported Accommodation sector across the whole of England & Wales. Throughout, the year of our 10^th anniversary we aim to celebrate our staff, highlight the various issues facing the homeless throughout the UK and encourage both our staff and the general public to support local charities with their efforts to reduce the impact of homelessness. For more information visit www.360-services.co.uk

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360 Services provides Event Security as well as security for most Commercial and Office Buildings. If you would like more information about joining our team or about the range of services that we offer our clients. Please email ops@360-services.co.uk or call 01322 277 051.

Vetting Security Staff & Support Workers

Vetting is an essential part of recruiting staff to work in both Security Guard roles and Support Staff for Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults. 360 Services prides itself on meeting and exceeding the requirements of BS 7858 for vetting and pre-employment screening by carrying out rigorous background checks on all recruits to our business. On the rare occasions where we use subcontractors, we also conduct the vetting on their behalf to ensure that our standards are being maintained.

BS7858 is the code of practice published by the British Standards Institute that gives recommendations for the screening of individuals in a secure environment where the safety of people, goods and services, data, and property is required or where such screening is to be in the public interest. Carrying out pre-employment screening can help ensure the safety of members of the public, people within our care as well as other workers. It can also help to show a level of competence showing that an individual can carry out a job with trust.

Verification of employees’ Identification Documents is required and thoroughly checked. Right-to-work checks are carried out and all copies of documents are stored safely and securely electronically for a period of 10 years. 360 Services uses the world’s most used provider of online credit reports to carry out these checks quickly and efficiently. A global watchlist check is also carried out, which cross referencing the potential employee’s name against various sanctions, watchlists and fraud databases including the HM Treasury’s consolidated list of financial sanctions targets in the UK.

Previous employers are contacted for references and verification of employment for the previous 5 years of work history. Any gaps in employment are investigated thoroughly and unless sufficient evidence can be provided to explain gaps over 30 days, the applicant would fail the vetting process. Evidence of gaps can come in many different forms including the use of Social Media checks, bank statement’s and records provided by Government departments.

All our staff that work in a setting where Safeguarding is the primary concern (for roles such as Night Concierge, Support Worker or Project Worker) are required to have an Enhanced DBS check carried out with the Adults and Children’s barred list being checked as part of the criminal records screening. The Government now recommends that employers work with Digital Identity Verification (DIV) providers for DBS checks, 360 Services uses a leading provider for such remote background checks. Should any concerns or alerts be raised on the check then a full risk assessment is carried out to ensure that safeguarding needs are not put at risk. All certificates are checked every three months on the Update Service website which all employees are required to register with. Whilst the Enhanced DBS lasts for 3 years, to add an extra layer of comfort to our Clients we require all staff to obtain a new Enhanced DBS on an annual basis.

Staff working in a purely security role where safeguarding vulnerable adults is not the priority are required to hold a current SIA licence and regular monthly checks are carried out to ensure they remain current.

All aspects of our vetting process are managed internally by our HR team, for staff recruited by our Head Office in Dartford or by our regional offices in London, Swindon and Yorkshire If you have any queries about how we ensure that our staff are safe to work with your clients please email admin@360-services.co.uk

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Fundraising for Supporting the Homeless

Fundraising for Supporting the Homeless

“Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step in your life”.

On a glorious day of sun, surrounded by family, friends and colleagues. We embarked on a journey that was about more than just putting one foot in front of the other. It was a charity walk aimed at shining a light on one of society’s most pressing issues: homelessness. With each step, we sought to make a difference, to raise awareness and funds for those who lacked the necessity of shelter.

The cause was deeply personal. Having witnessed the struggles faced by individuals without stable housing, the walk held a profound significance for me. It was a chance to transform empathy into action, to contribute towards fundraising for our valued client Homeless Oxfordshire, who provide support, shelter, and resources to the homeless population of Oxfordshire.

As we joined the assembly of participants, there was a sense of purpose in the air. Volunteers, supporters, and fellow walkers gathered with a shared commitment to make a positive impact. There were two excellent welcome talks one, an emotional tribute by Amber Hughes to her sister who had been supported by the Charity prior to her death, which was then followed up by Simon Hewett-Avison, CEO of Homeless Oxfordshire.

The venue for the walk was Ditchley Park in Oxfordshire, a beautiful location with a rich vein of history. As we all set off each step echoed a silent pledge to stand in solidarity with those facing the harsh realities of homelessness, along the way, conversations bloomed, anecdotes were shared, and connections were formed. It was a reminder that homelessness isn’t merely a statistic, but a complex issue intertwined with individual stories and struggles. The weather was idyllic for the walk and the surrounding of countryside was mind blowing for such a glorious cause.

The physical exertion of the walk was met with an unwavering determination fuelled by the cause we were championing. The fatigue that settled in was a small price to pay compared to the challenges faced daily by those without a place to call home. The sore muscles were reminders of the privilege of having a roof over my head and emphasised the urgency to do more for those in need. As the miles passed, the collective spirit of the participants grew stronger. Strangers became companions, supporting each other through the journey. The shared goal of making a difference overshadowed any differences, uniting us in our quest to address homelessness in our community.

Crossing the finish line was a moment of triumph, not just for completing the walk but for contributing, in some small way, to a cause larger than ourselves. The impact of the charity walk extended far beyond the physical distance covered. It was about raising awareness, fostering empathy, and sparking conversations that could lead to lasting change. It was a reminder that addressing homelessness requires not only immediate aid, but also long-term solutions rooted in community support and advocacy.

As the walk concluded, I carried with me a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to continue advocating for those without homes. The experience reinforced the belief that collective action, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the lives of those facing homelessness, with each step taken during the charity walk, we moved closer to a world where everyone has a place to call home. We all settled in to having some refreshments which was just as glorious as the views seen of simply one of the best slices of chocolate cake I’d eaten.

Written by Jon Turner – Operations Manager for 360 Services who was joined on the walk by his wife and daughter as well as by the Managing Director of 360 Services who was also accompanied by his family.

If we can help your charity to promote fundraising for the Homeless in Oxford, London, Kent or any other regions where we supply staff please email ops@360-services.co.uk

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Mobolaji – A Day In The Life

Meet Mobolagi Ayorinde, he has worked and provided excellent service for almost 5 years now. He is our Lead Security Officer at Cory Western Riverside Transfer Station. Cory is one of the UK’s leading recycling and waste management companies, they receive around 900,000 tonnes of non-recyclable black bag waste a year. 89% of which arrives at the site where Mobolaji is based, so doing regular and thorough patrols of the premises and being extra vigilant are all key to Mobolaji’s role.

Why did you start working with 360 Services?

I was looking for a reputable Security company to work with, I had heard good things about 360 Services, so I decided to apply. 360 called me and asked me to come to West London to conduct an interview and the rest is history.

What does your job involve?

I have been a Permanent Security Officer at Cory for 4 years. It’s a 5000 sq ft area with about 4 different companies inside. Cory’s key purpose is to recycle waste and transfer it into energy and construction materials. My main duty is to ensure the site is always secure, monitor incoming and outgoing vehicles, keep vigilant, and ensure health and safety procedures are being followed. I conduct regular health checks and assist the management team on site.

Describe some of the training that you received in order to do your job better?

When I first started at Cory I received in-depth training, it was made very clear to me what I needed to do to do my job to the best of my abilities. However, the Health & safety course that 360 services run is some of the best information I have received. I have done the course on 3 separate occasions and each time I pick up new nuggets of information as they are continuously updating the course.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to keep fit and active, so I go to the gym at least 2 times a week. I also like to give back, so I volunteer and do charity work. Other than that, I like to spend time with my family and watch movies.

What do you find rewarding about your job?

Working with a reputable company and working with a great management team is always a bonus. It also feels good to know that I work at a site whose main goal is to help the environment.

What’s your most proud moment working with us?

I get excited and feel proud when we get new contracts and new sites. It feels good to know that I can contribute and be a part of a growing company.

What’s the biggest lesson you have learned working with us?

Being dedicated to your job, understanding the importance of being consistent, and knowing what you’re doing, and if you don’t, don’t be afraid to ask questions.

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360 Services Notting Hill Carnival Blog –

Our experience on the other side of the rope

360 Services has now provided security and stewarding services for one of the largest floats at
the Notting Hill Carnival – Elimu Mas, since 2018. This year, across the 2 days we provided close to 100 security officers and stewards, to ensure that everyone enjoyed their carnival experience. As the years go by, we learn more about the best ways to get organised, prepared, and ready for the two busy days.

The preparation starts months in advance when we start selecting the employees who we think are the right fit for this event. We carefully select the employees based on their performance, reliability, and skills. As a business, we work against the “one size fits all” philosophy, and so for each of our customers, we aim to pick and choose what is right for them. For example, on Children’s day, the emphasis is on friendly security with good communication skills.

Providing security for such a big and high-profile event is always a learning experience for us as a team. We understand that preparation is vital for an event like this, so we make sure that we are set up for success by having a detailed plan in place with contingencies for an emergency or a major incident. Not only is it our goal to keep the float secure, but to also make sure the band staff, the public, and our team are safe. This year there were no significant incidents except a few members of the public enjoying their drink a bit too much.

The days start off with a very detailed briefing, and every staff member is made aware of their position and responsibility around the float, whilst management and the response team keep their eyes and ears out for any potential problems. We go over the plans set out with the client, ensure we have the rope ready, and that all our safety measures are in place.

Whilst both the float and the public are enjoying the party, our security and stewards team enjoy the atmosphere from the other side of the rope.

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Security

Budget Pressures Facing the UK Housing and Homeless Hostel Sector in 2025-26