Portland House Nursing Home is a 32-bedded home set within landscaped gardens and within easy access to both Shrewsbury town centre and main arterial routes. Our mission is to provide nursing care to all of our residents, which exceeds the minimum standards, and embraces the principles of good care practices.
We are looking for a talented and passionate Bank Chef/ Kitchen Assistant to join our dynamic kitchen team, to cover annual leave and sickness cover for both our chefs and kitchen assistants
Pay rate to be discussed
The role as chef will include, but not be limited to:
· Plan, prepare, and cook nutritious, well-balanced meals that meet the dietary needs, preferences, and medical requirements of residents.
· Ensure all food is prepared and presented to a high standard, in accordance with food hygiene and safety regulations.
· Work closely with care staff to understand residents’ individual dietary needs, including allergies, cultural preferences, and texture-modified diets.
· Maintain a clean, safe, and hygienic kitchen environment, following infection control procedures and cleaning schedules.
· Oversee stock control, ordering, and storage of food supplies, ensuring correct stock rotation and minimal waste.
· Maintain up-to-date records relating to food safety, temperature checks, and cleaning tasks.
· Support and supervise kitchen assistants or other staff, ensuring they follow correct procedures and standards.
· Comply with all relevant legislation and company policies relating to health and safety, food hygiene, and allergens.
The role as kitchen assistant will include, but not be limited to:
· Assist the cook or chef with basic food preparation such as peeling, chopping, and assembling meals
· Prepare light snacks and beverages as required
· Ensure all kitchen areas, equipment, and utensils are cleaned and sanitized to a high standard
· Follow food hygiene and safety procedures in line with current regulations and care home policies
· Wash dishes, pots, pans, and cutlery using the dishwasher or by hand
· Dispose of waste and food scraps appropriately, following recycling and infection control procedures
· Help with the receipt, unpacking, and storage of food deliveries
· Monitor stock levels of kitchen supplies and report any shortages to the chef or manager
· Support the serving of meals to residents in a timely and respectful manner
· Assist with setting up and clearing dining areas
· Adhere to all health and safety guidelines, including COSHH and manual handling procedures
· Report any faults, hazards, or incidents promptly to senior staff
· Work effectively as part of the kitchen and care team, maintaining good communication and a helpful
attitude
· Respect the dietary needs, preferences, and dignity of all residents
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience: ·
An understanding of IDDSI (International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative levels)
· Familiar with food safety, hygiene regulations, and HACCP procedures.
· Able to plan balanced menus tailored to individual needs, with an understanding of care sector standards and safeguarding.
· Skilled in cooking, food preparation, and modifying meal textures. · Strong time management, communication, and teamwork abilities.
· Adaptable and calm under pressure, with leadership experience in kitchen settings.
· Experienced in cooking for people with specific dietary or medical requirements, ideally in care homes or similar environments.
· Familiar with kitchen inspections, compliance, and managing day-to-day kitchen operations.
Requirements
- Previous experience in a similar role is desirable but not essential
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work as part of a team and independently
- Creativity and enthusiasm for engaging with older people
- Availability to work weekends and evenings as required
Please note: This post is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
Job Types: Permanent, Zero hours contract
Pay: £13.50-£15.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
