Kids Company charity investigated by police

In a statement, Kids Company said it understood the inquiry was into “what it understands to be historical but serious allegations”. It added that it “has no further substantive information to date.”

The statement added: “All allegations of criminal behaviour regarding Kids Company employees and clients are immediately reported to the police. The safety security and well-being of the children, young people and adults we support is our first priority and it is this imperative that will guide our response to the allegations once further information has been disclosed by the police.”

The Metropolitan Police Service said in a statement that it had commenced “an investigation into a number of allegations of crime involving a children’s charity”.

The investigation is being led by officers from the Complex Case Team of the Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command. The police asked anyone who has information, or concerns to contact the investigating team on 0208 217 6538, or the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000.

Externally reviewed

In its response, Kids Company said: “The organisation operates robust policies and procedures that ensure Kids Company’s clients are protected and that staff work safely with clients at all times.

“Kids Company’s policies and procedures are externally reviewed regularly by expert consultants and are governed by a risk sub-committee comprised of senior clinicians and representatives from the board of trustees.

The charity, which was founded by Camila Batmanghelidjh in 1996, provides support to vulnerable inner-city children, young people and families.

On its website it says: “we provide a safe, caring, family environment where support is tailored to the needs of each individual.

“Our services and support empower those who have experienced enormous challenges to lead positive and fulfilling lives.

“Despite great difficulties, those we work with are hugely courageous and embrace the support we offer.”

It claims to reach 36,000 individuals across London, Bristol and Liverpool.

In July founder Camila Batmanghelidjh stepped down as chief executive after it emerged that the Cabinet Office had been withholding £3m worth of funding unless she relinquished her position.

The charity, which has received substantial donations from celebrities over the years, says it receives income from 77,000 different sources a year.

In 2003 it had a tax bill of almost £590,000 waived by the government.