We Know That Family Can Come From Anywhere
At The Lodge, a family-run residential care home, it is our privilege to care for the people who live with us — treating every resident as though they were part of our own family. That ethos runs through everything we do, from the quality of care we provide, right down to the food we place on the table each day.
About the Role
Food is so much more than fuel — it is comfort, joy, and a moment of real pleasure in someone's day. That is why we are looking for a passionate and talented Head Chef who genuinely loves what they do and takes real pride in seeing our residents enjoy every meal.
Whether it is a perfectly cooked Full English Breakfast, a hearty Sunday Roast, freshly made pastries, or indulgent desserts, we want someone who finds true satisfaction in cooking food that brings smiles to people's faces. You will not just be cooking — you will be making a meaningful difference to the daily lives of our residents, promoting their independence, dignity, and overall wellbeing through the food you prepare.
You will be joining a warm, close-knit team that feels just like a family, made up of people from all walks of life who share one common goal — to make life better for the people in our care.
Key Responsibilities
- Preparing and cooking meals in accordance with the menu, ensuring quality, presentation, and portion control at every meal time
- Preparing specialised dietary meals tailored to individual residents' needs, preferences, and cultural requirements (IDDSI)
- Maintaining the highest standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and health and safety throughout the kitchen at all times
- Completing all relevant documentation in line with HACCP regulations and food safety compliance
- Assisting with menu planning and making revisions where required to reflect residents' preferences and seasonal availability
- Reporting any equipment defects or maintenance concerns promptly to the Home Manager
- Managing and supporting the kitchen team, including carrying out supervisions, appraisals, and scheduling staff on a rolling two-week rota
- Placing food orders and managing stock within the budget set by management
- Carrying out any reasonable duties requested by senior staff to support the smooth running of the home
Who We Are Looking For
You are someone who cares deeply about others and is motivated by making a genuine difference to people's lives every single day. You bring your personality to work — your sense of humour, your enthusiasm, and your warmth — and you understand that those qualities matter just as much as your cooking skills.
You know there will be challenging days, but you will also laugh, have fun, and create lasting memories alongside our residents and your colleagues.
Essential:
- Previous experience working in a kitchen environment, ideally within a residential care home setting
- Experience or awareness of cooking for residents living with dementia
- Strong knowledge of food hygiene, food safety regulations, and kitchen compliance paperwork
- Ability to prepare and adapt meals for residents with specific dietary requirements
- A hardworking, motivated individual with a genuine passion for delivering great food and service
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- A positive, flexible, and collaborative team player
- Ability to manage a small kitchen team and take ownership of the kitchen operation
- Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate or above
- Experience with menu planning and budget management
- Knowledge of COSHH and infection control procedures
- Able to use a computer and tools such as Excel and Word
What You Will Receive
- On-site parking
- Uniform provided
- A genuinely supportive and friendly team environment
- The privilege of knowing your work makes a real difference every single day
Pay: £18.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
