We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Care Home Cook to join our dedicated team. In this role, you will prepare nutritious, appetising, and well-balanced meals that support the health and wellbeing of our residents. You will have a good understanding of the nutritional needs of older people, including those living with dementia, diabetes, and other medical conditions requiring specialist diets.
The successful candidate will have experience preparing meals in accordance with the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) framework and will ensure all meals are prepared safely for residents with swallowing difficulties, food allergies, and dietary requirements. You will work closely with the care team to provide an enjoyable dining experience while maintaining the highest standards of food hygiene, safety, and quality.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and cook fresh, nutritious meals, snacks, and desserts in accordance with planned menus and residents' dietary requirements.
- Produce meals that meet the IDDSI framework.
- Cater for a range of specialist diets, including diabetic, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, low-salt, fortified, and high-protein diets.
- Accurately manage and record food allergens in line with UK food safety legislation, ensuring residents receive meals that are safe for their individual needs.
- Liaise with care staff, and management regarding residents' dietary requirements, allergies, nutritional concerns, and changing needs.
- Prepare meals that promote hydration and good nutrition for elderly residents, including those with poor appetites or at risk of malnutrition.
- Monitor food quality, portion control, and presentation to ensure meals are both nutritious and appealing.
- Maintain excellent standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and infection prevention throughout the kitchen.
- Ensure all food is stored, labelled, rotated, and disposed of in accordance with HACCP procedures and food safety regulations.
- Complete daily temperature checks, cleaning schedules, and kitchen documentation accurately.
- Manage food stock, place orders, minimise waste, and maintain budget awareness.
- Assist with menu planning, taking into account seasonal produce, resident preferences, cultural needs, and nutritional guidance.
- Work effectively as part of the wider care home team, contributing to residents' overall wellbeing and dining experience.
- Support inspections by maintaining compliance with Environmental Health, CQC requirements, and company policies.
Essential Experience & Skills
- Previous experience working as a Cook or Chef within a care home, nursing home, hospital, or healthcare environment.
- Good understanding of the IDDSI framework and preparation of texture-modified meals and thickened fluids.
- Knowledge of the nutritional requirements of older adults, including residents living with dementia and other age-related health conditions.
- Strong understanding of food allergies, intolerances, and allergen management, with the ability to prevent cross-contamination.
- Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (minimum); Level 3 is desirable.
- Knowledge of HACCP, food safety legislation, and infection prevention procedures.
- Ability to prepare meals for multiple dietary requirements simultaneously while maintaining quality and safety.
- Experience managing kitchen cleaning schedules, stock rotation, and temperature monitoring.
- Good organisational skills with the ability to work calmly under pressure.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- A caring, patient, and compassionate approach towards elderly residents.
Pay: £12.71 per hour
Work Location: In person
