Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Cook to join our care home team. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing and cooking nutritious, high-quality meals that meet the dietary, cultural, and personal preferences of our residents. Working closely with the care and catering teams, you will help ensure residents receive safe, well-balanced meals that support their health and wellbeing.
You will maintain high standards of food hygiene, kitchen cleanliness, and food safety compliance while assisting with stock control, inventory management, and kitchen organisation. The role requires a good understanding of nutrition, food preparation, and catering for older adults, including those with specific dietary requirements.
The ideal candidate will have previous kitchen or catering experience, strong organisational skills, and a commitment to delivering excellent service. An understanding of safeguarding vulnerable adults and the importance of promoting residents' dignity, wellbeing, and safety is essential.
Duties
- Prepare ingredients and assist with meal preparation in accordance with recipes, dietary requirements, and care home standards.
- Cook and present nutritious, high-quality meals that meet residents' needs and preferences.
- Ensure meals are prepared and served in line with food hygiene, health and safety, and infection control procedures.
- Maintain a clean and organised kitchen environment, including washing dishes, utensils, equipment, and work surfaces.
- Follow food safety regulations, including temperature monitoring, allergen management, and safe food storage practices.
- Assist with stock control, stock rotation, inventory checks, and ordering or restocking supplies as required.
- Support the smooth running of the kitchen during busy periods and work collaboratively with care and catering teams.
- Dispose of waste appropriately and maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the kitchen and dining areas.
- Understand the nutritional requirements of older people and prepare meals that support residents' health, wellbeing, and specific dietary needs.
- Report any concerns relating to food safety, resident wellbeing, or safeguarding in accordance with care home policies.
- Promote the dignity, independence, and wellbeing of residents through a person-centred approach to meal preparation and service.
Essential Requirements
- Previous experience working as a Cook, Kitchen Assistant, or in a similar catering role.
- Experience working in a care home, nursing home, restaurant, hospitality, or catering environment.
- Good knowledge of food safety standards, hygiene regulations, and safe working practices.
- Understanding of meal preparation, cooking techniques, food presentation, and portion control.
- Knowledge of nutrition and special dietary requirements, including modified diets, allergies, and cultural preferences.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
Desirable Requirements
- Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above).
- Experience preparing meals for elderly or vulnerable individuals.
- Previous serving or front-of-house experience.
- Understanding of safeguarding vulnerable adults and the importance of recognising and reporting concerns in line with safeguarding procedures.
- Knowledge of Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards and best practices within care settings.
This position offers an excellent pathway for those looking to develop their culinary skills within a supportive team environment. Applicants should be organised, attentive to detail, and passionate about delivering quality food and service.
Pay: From £13.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
