Job Summary
Waterlily Healthcare is seeking an enthusiastic and compassionate Chef & Rehabilitation Catering Lead to join our innovative mental health rehabilitation service.
This is not a traditional chef role. We believe food, cooking and shared meals play a vital role in recovery, wellbeing and independent living. Alongside preparing nutritious, high-quality meals, you will support residents to develop practical life skills including meal planning, budgeting, shopping and cooking.
Working closely with residents and the multidisciplinary team, you will help create a welcoming, recovery-focused environment where people are supported to build confidence, independence and community connections.
Salary: £27,000 - £31,000 FTE
Hours and Contract
This is a permanent part-time role offering 20–30 hours per week.
The successful candidate will be guaranteed a minimum of 20 hours per week, with the potential for additional hours as the service develops and occupancy increases. Working arrangements will be reviewed periodically as the service becomes established.
What You'll Do
- Prepare nutritious and varied meals for residents.
- Support a recovery-focused catering service, .
- Facilitate cooking and food-related activities.
- Manage food ordering, stock control and budgets.
- Maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene.
- Work collaboratively with care team.
What We're Looking For
- Professional chef experience or relevant catering qualification.
- Passion for supporting people and making a difference.
- Excellent food safety and kitchen management skills.
- Ability to engage and motivate others.
- A values-based approach that promotes dignity, choice and independence.
What We Offer
- Supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- The chance to make a meaningful difference to people's recovery journeys every day
Additional Information
Appointment will be subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks and successful completion of a probationary period.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Waterlily Healthcare.
Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At Waterlily Care, our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion is central to how we care for people and how we work together. We are guided by the CQC’s fundamental standards and values, ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity, respect and compassion.
We are committed to providing equal opportunities and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity or expression, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, marital status, or any other protected characteristic.
As a mental health service provider, we recognise the importance of wellbeing, psychological safety and accessibility at work. We are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments and supportive arrangements throughout the recruitment process to help every candidate perform at their best.
Please be aware that at present we do not have a sponsor licence so will be unable to support applications from applicants who require sponsorship.
Pay: £27,000.00-£31,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
