30/05/2026
Ellie & The Candy Pod.
Ellie was born with a rare genetic condition that presents numerous lifelong challenges for her, against advice we opted for a mainstream education for Ellie, we believe labels can often be more disabling than the condition, if you believe you can’t, you won’t. Against the odds she attained her GCSEs before enrolling in college, at the end of college we realised the opportunities for her were very limited and began to question what was next for her.
The original Pod came to life for Ellie, it is her business, We wanted to show her that, despite her diagnosis, she could still achieve independence and support herself. Like many parents of children with additional needs, one of our biggest worries has always been what happens to her when we’re no longer here.
The first year in the tiny Pod was incredible. It was just the right size to help Ellie build her confidence, test how well the idea would work, and get everything off the ground. We were so fortunate to be given that opportunity by the team at Diamond Farm, with the support of the amazing Cafe 33. The location was perfect, with beautiful surroundings and a wonderfully supportive community.
By the end of the first season, it had become clear that we needed more space. Once again, luck was on our side when Brean Bike Hire moved into larger premises, freeing up the stable on the other side of the patio. We collected the keys on a bleak, wet February day and began the refurbishment a few weeks later, eventually opening just in time for summer.
With four years now behind us, Our regular customer base has continued to grow, many are more like friends and we’ve had the pleasure of welcoming so many new faces year on year
Seeing the new shop open was one of our proudest moments . Watching the business grow, and seeing Ellie grow alongside it, has been an enormous source of pride and relief. For the first time since her diagnosis, we feel genuinely reassured that she will be able to build an independent future for herself long after we’re gone.
None of this would have been possible without the support of Diamond Farm, Cafe 33, and, of course, the Pod’s wonderful customers. Your encouragement, kindness, and loyalty have helped make this dream a reality, and we are truly grateful to every single one of you.
Thank you all so much. 🙏❤️
