Purpose of the Role
To provide high-quality catering support within the home, ensuring residents receive nutritious, balanced, and appetising meals that meet their individual dietary, cultural, and religious requirements. The post holder will maintain the highest standards of food hygiene, health and safety, and kitchen cleanliness while supporting the smooth operation of the catering service.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare, and serve nutritious, balanced meals in accordance with agreed menu plans and meal service times.
- Provide a varied choice of meals, adapting menus and food preparation to accommodate special dietary, medical, cultural, religious, and ethnic requirements.
- Provide cooking cover in the absence of the Chef, including during periods of annual leave or sickness, ensuring continuity of the catering service.
- Monitor food stock levels, rotate stock using first-in, first-out (FIFO) principles, and place regular orders to maintain adequate supplies in line with menu requirements.
- Receive and check food deliveries against purchase orders, reporting and resolving any discrepancies promptly.
- Present meals in an attractive and appetising manner, promoting a positive dining experience for residents.
- Assist with the planning, preparation, and catering of special events, celebrations, and functions within the home.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the kitchen by following cleaning schedules and complying with current Public Health guidance.
- Ensure all statutory food hygiene regulations and food safety standards are consistently met.
- Monitor, record, and maintain food temperatures, as well as daily temperature checks of refrigerators and freezers, in accordance with food safety procedures.
- Safely store, rotate, and dispose of food products, ensuring expired or unsuitable items are removed in line with food safety regulations.
- Assist with the cleaning, maintenance, and safe operation of kitchen equipment, reporting any faults or maintenance requirements promptly.
- Adhere to the home's Health and Safety policies, procedures, and risk management practices, ensuring a safe environment for residents, visitors, and colleagues.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to deliver an efficient, high-quality catering service that enhances residents' wellbeing and dining experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Attributes
- Knowledge of food hygiene legislation and safe food handling practices.
- Ability to prepare nutritious meals for a range of dietary and nutritional needs.
- Understanding of allergen management and specialised diets.
- Good organisational and stock control skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness, safety, and resident care.
- Flexible and reliable, with the ability to provide cover when required.
Overall Aim
To deliver a safe, efficient, and resident-focused catering service that promotes health, wellbeing, dignity, and choice while ensuring full compliance with food safety, infection prevention, and Health and Safety regulations
Pay: £13.45 per hour
Work Location: In person
