Job Overview
We are looking for a compassionate, reliable, and experienced Cook to join our friendly team at our nursing care home. You will play a vital role in providing nutritious, home-cooked meals that enhance the health, wellbeing, and enjoyment of our residents.
This is a hands-on role that involves preparing high-quality meals, creating varied and balanced menus, managing food supplies, and supporting the smooth day-to-day operation of the kitchen. You will also be responsible for organising kitchen staff rotas and ensuring the kitchen operates safely and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare, cook, and serve fresh, nutritious meals for residents in line with planned menus.
- Create varied, seasonal menus that meet residents' nutritional needs, preferences, and dietary requirements.
- Cater for specialist diets, including diabetic, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, texture-modified, allergy-aware, and culturally appropriate meals.
- Consult with residents and the management team to ensure menus provide choice and satisfaction.
- Order food, beverages, and kitchen supplies while maintaining agreed budgets.
- Monitor stock levels, rotate stock using FIFO principles, and minimise food waste.
- Organise and maintain accurate kitchen records, including temperature checks, cleaning schedules, and food safety documentation.
- Ensure full compliance with Food Safety, HACCP, COSHH, infection prevention, and Health & Safety regulations.
- Maintain a clean, organised, and safe kitchen environment.
- Plan and manage kitchen staff rotas ("off duties") to ensure appropriate staffing levels and efficient kitchen operations.
- Support, supervise, and work alongside kitchen assistants to maintain high standards of service.
- Liaise closely with care staff regarding residents' dietary needs, allergies, and nutritional requirements.
- Report maintenance issues and equipment faults promptly.
- Contribute to a positive dining experience that promotes dignity, independence, and resident choice.
What We're Looking ForEssential
- Previous experience as a Cook or Chef, ideally within a care home, nursing home, healthcare, or catering environment.
- Experience planning menus and catering for a variety of dietary requirements.
- Experience ordering food and managing kitchen stock.
- Experience organising staff rotas or supervising kitchen staff.
- Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
- Good knowledge of food hygiene legislation and safe working practices.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- A caring and respectful approach towards older people.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Schedule
- Full-time
- Weekend availability required on a rota basis.
- Flexible shifts to meet the needs of the home.
Why Join Us?
Food is an important part of life in our home, and we're looking for someone who takes pride in preparing meals that residents genuinely enjoy. If you are organised, creative, and passionate about making a difference through great food and excellent service, we'd love to hear from you.
Job Type: Full-time
Experience:
- Care home or healthcare catering: Preferred
- Professional cooking: 2 years preferred
Licence/Certification:
- Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (Preferred)
Pay: £13.38 per hour
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
