Cook – Care Sector (28 Hours/Week)Job Introduction
We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Cook to join a well-established organisation and a supportive team within the care sector. This role offers an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful difference to residents' wellbeing by preparing nutritious, high-quality meals while developing your skills in a rewarding environment.
About the Company
Our organisation is committed to providing high-quality, person-centred care in a safe, welcoming, and professional environment. We understand that good nutrition plays an important role in residents' health, wellbeing, dignity, and quality of life.
Our catering team works closely with care staff to ensure residents receive meals that are nutritious, enjoyable, and tailored to their individual dietary needs and preferences.
Core Values
- Be Open and Transparent
- Demonstrate Accountability
- Display Integrity
- Act Inclusively
- Be Proud
- Share Knowledge Always
Safeguarding Statement
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults. All employees are expected to understand and demonstrate this commitment while carrying out their duties.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and serve nutritious, well-balanced, and appealing meals in accordance with agreed menus and residents' dietary requirements.
- Ensure meals are prepared and served safely and in line with food hygiene, food safety, and Health & Safety standards.
- Cater for individual dietary requirements, including allergies, cultural preferences, medical diets, and modified or special textures.
- Work closely with care staff to understand and accommodate residents' nutritional needs and preferences.
- Monitor food quality, portion sizes, presentation, and temperature to ensure meals are consistently delivered to a high standard.
- Maintain a clean, organised, and hygienic kitchen and food preparation environment.
- Follow appropriate food storage, preparation, cooking, and cleaning procedures.
- Assist with menu planning to provide varied, nutritious, and enjoyable meal choices.
- Assist with ordering, stock control, and the effective use of food supplies to minimise waste.
- Maintain accurate catering and food safety records as required.
- Report any food safety concerns, equipment faults, maintenance issues, or catering-related concerns promptly.
- Work positively with colleagues to contribute to an excellent dining experience for residents.
- Participate in mandatory, role-specific, and additional training to support professional development.
What We're Looking For
- A passionate Cook who takes pride in preparing nutritious and high-quality meals.
- Someone who understands the importance of good nutrition within a care environment.
- A reliable and organised team player who can work effectively with care and catering colleagues.
- Someone who maintains excellent food hygiene, cleanliness, and safety standards.
- An individual who is confident catering for different dietary requirements, allergies, and modified textures.
- Someone with a caring and professional approach who understands the importance of residents' dignity, choice, and wellbeing.
Requirements
- Previous experience in a cooking role, preferably within a care home, healthcare, catering, hospitality, or similar setting.
- Food Hygiene Certificate, or willingness to obtain one.
- Good understanding of food hygiene, food safety, and Health & Safety requirements.
- Understanding of dietary requirements, including allergies, special diets, and modified textures.
- Ability to follow menus and prepare nutritious, balanced meals.
- Good organisational and communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Passion for cooking and commitment to delivering high-quality meals.
- Enhanced DBS clearance, or willingness to obtain one.
- Right to work in the UK.
Benefits
- Permanent contract with 28 hours per week
- Paid DBS (terms apply)
- Funded mandatory training
- Opportunity to complete bespoke training and gain relevant qualifications
- Enhanced holiday pay for regular overtime hours
- Access to Blue Light Card for retail and leisure discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Years of Service Award
- Mental Health First Aider support
- Career development and progression opportunities
- Pension Scheme (3% employer contribution, 5% employee contribution)
- Supportive and flexible working environment promoting work-life balance
How to Apply
Click the “Apply Now” button to review the full role details and submit your application. We look forward to welcoming a dedicated new team member who is passionate about cooking and committed to making a positive difference to residents in the care sector.
Inclusivity Statement
We are proud to support diversity and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including BAME, LGBTQ+, and disabled individuals. We only work with partners who have a proven record of advocating for inclusivity and equal opportunities in the workplace.
Disclaimer
This vacancy is being advertised by SquareLogik Ltd on behalf of our client. SquareLogik acts as a recruitment provider and is not the employer for this position.
All applications are managed by SquareLogik and candidate information will only be shared with the hiring organisation for this vacancy or where permission has been given.
SquareLogik Ltd is registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and is a REC Corporate Member (Registration No. 00207641).
SEO Keywords
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Pay: £13.00 per hour
Experience:
- as cook: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person
