Please note: Applicants who are not UK nationals must have the right to work in the UK, with at least 12 months remaining on their visa. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
"We are not a team in a workplace; we are a family altogether"
Cook with Purpose – Make a Difference Every Day
At Woodside Lodge, we are more than just a care home – we are a close-knit community dedicated to creating a warm, supportive, and homely environment for both our residents and our team. With 20 beds, we pride ourselves on delivering truly personalised care where every individual is known, valued, and respected.
We are looking for a passionate and dedicated Chef to join our team and play a vital role in enhancing the wellbeing of our residents through nutritious, delicious, and home-cooked meals.
Food is at the heart of life at Woodside Lodge. As our Chef, you'll have the opportunity to make a genuine difference every day by creating enjoyable dining experiences that support health, comfort, and quality of life.
Our Ethos
Our oath to our Residents is to provide care and support tailored to individual needs, in a clean, comfortable, friendly, and welcoming atmosphere. We are committed to delivering care that is flexible, attentive, and non-discriminatory, while always respecting each resident’s privacy, dignity, fulfilment, and right to make informed choices. We support our residents to live as independently as possible, with qualified and compassionate staff leading the way.
Our dining experience is an important part of this commitment, and we believe that great food contributes significantly to our residents' happiness and overall wellbeing.
Why Join Woodside Lodge?
- Competitive rate of pay, dependent on experience and qualifications
- Enhanced rates for weekends and bank holidays
- Supportive, friendly, family-oriented environment
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Free DBS and DBS Update Service
- Blue Light Card eligibility
- Free meals whilst on duty
- Free uniform provided
- Pension scheme
- 5.6 weeks paid holiday entitlement
- Employee of the Month recognition
- The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in residents' lives every day
About the Role
As Chef at Woodside Lodge, you will be responsible for planning, preparing, and serving high-quality meals that meet the nutritional requirements, dietary needs, and preferences of our residents.
You will take pride in creating varied and appetising menus while ensuring the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and cleanliness are maintained at all times.
Working closely with the management team and care staff, you will contribute to creating a positive dining experience that residents look forward to every day.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan and prepare nutritious, balanced, and appealing meals for residents
- Cater for individual dietary requirements, allergies, cultural preferences, and special diets
- Develop varied menus that promote choice and enjoyment
- Maintain high standards of food presentation and quality
- Ensure compliance with food hygiene, health and safety, and infection control regulations
- Manage food stock, ordering, storage, and waste effectively
- Maintain accurate records in line with regulatory requirements
- Keep kitchen areas clean, organised, and compliant with food safety standards
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure residents receive an excellent dining experience
About You
- Previous experience as a Chef, Cook, or Catering Professional
- Knowledge of food hygiene regulations and nutritional requirements
- Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
- Understanding of catering for special diets and allergies
- Good organisational and time management skills
- A caring and compassionate approach, recognising the importance of mealtimes for residents
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Reliable, flexible, and committed to maintaining high standards
- Full right to work in the UK
Desirable
- Experience working within a care home, healthcare, education, or similar setting
- Relevant catering or professional cookery qualification
- Understanding of nutritional needs for older people
Join Woodside Lodge and become part of a team that truly values kindness, respect, and individuality—creating a place where residents feel at home and staff feel proud to work.
Pay: From £12.75 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Christchurch BH23 8DB: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Education:
- GCSE or equivalent (preferred)
Experience:
- Hospitality: 1 year (preferred)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
