Kids Company has used the grant from ERSF to buy a minibus as per the original purpose of the proposal.

Edward Davey, fundraiser, reports: "A Ford Van Transit Minibus (registration number, FG 07 UBL) was purchased on 16 April 2007. The cash price was £28, 083.47p. It has been in daily use since purchase for the purposes intended, including over weekends; quite simply, we could not manage without it.

"The minibus has improved our provision immeasurably, with an indirect knock-on impact on our work and ability to appeal to other donors due to the comprehensive nature of our provision."

The costs of maintenance and fuel will continue to be covered by Kids Company’s unrestricted charitable fundraising.

Mr Davey added: "The service of the Foundation has been exemplary, and we are all very grateful for its support."

'There will never be words good enough to describe the appreciation we feel towards you on behalf of our children. Your generosity and kindness has been extraordinary. You have hugely impacted our ability to help the vulnerable kids who seek us out. The children have created this very special card for you.'

Director - Kids Company