New coffee shop brews opportunity for local youth

A new coffee shop in Barnstaple is putting purpose before profit, creating a warm and welcoming space where every cup of coffee serves a greater good. 

Located on Gammon Walk, Nellie’s Coffee Bar is not just another café - it’s a community hub dedicated to supporting young people in North Devon, particularly those transitioning out of the care system.

Nellie’s Coffee Bar operates with a unique mission: all profits are donated to Blue Elephant Future Steps CiC, a not-for-profit organisation that supports individuals moving on from children’s homes. 

But the café’s commitment to making a difference doesn’t stop there.

It also provides employment opportunities to young adults who have spent time in care, helping them build their resumes and gain vital work experience.

Abi Milton, Operations Director, said: “We’re good people, employing good people, serving great coffee. Alongside being passionate about serving the perfect cup of coffee to our customers, the Blue Elephant ethos of ‘purpose before profit’ is the same here at Nellie’s. We have a supported employment programme here and are proud to have a trauma informed approach to employment. Through our understanding and experiences of working with children in care, we know entering the world of work can cause anxiety and fear. We have supported some of our children to put together their CV and apply for employment here. Our café is managed by the wonderful Payton who also understands the care system. We want to challenge the stigma around children who grow up in care and give them the best opportunities possible.”

Understanding the challenges that young people face when entering the workforce, particularly those with care backgrounds, Nellie’s offers more than just a job—it offers a supportive environment. 

The café is managed by Payton, who also has experience with the care system, ensuring that the young employees are understood and supported.

Recently awarded a five-star hygiene rating, Nellie’s Coffee Bar is open from 8am to 4pm, Monday through Saturday. 

The café serves a variety of drinks and treats, including coffee, tea, cakes, and pastries, alongside a lunch menu that features jacket potatoes, artisan ciabatta sandwiches, and paninis. 

Looking ahead, the café is planning to expand its menu and explore new initiatives, such as supper clubs and festive events.

Abi is already thinking about the future: “Now we have this wonderful space in Gammon Walk we are already looking at future plans for how we can use the space to help change the future for children leaving care and change the prejudice surrounding children in care.”

For Abi and her team, Nellie’s Coffee Bar is more than just a business - it’s a passion project. 

Working closely with their sister company, Blue Elephant Childcare, they are committed to supporting young people as they transition out of care and into adulthood. 

They recognise that while there is some support available, such as housing, there is often a lack of emotional support. 

To bridge this gap, they hope to build tiny homes for these young adults, allowing them to stay close to their former children’s homes while they navigate the challenges of early adulthood.

For more information, visit Nellie’s Coffee Bar’s website or find them on Facebook.