Company Overview
At Vivid Care Services, we supply a range of high-quality Chef staff to nursing homes, supported living, children's services, GP surgeries, dental practices, elderly dementia care, and domiciliary care services across the UK. Our mission is to deliver safe, person-centred care that enhances the quality of life for every individual we support.
Summary
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Chef to join our team, specialising in catering for care homes and supported living environments. In this key role, you will be responsible for preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals tailored to the dietary needs of our service users, ensuring compliance with UK healthcare catering guidelines. Your expertise will help promote health, dignity, and enjoyment through food.
Responsibilities
* Plan, prepare, and cook fresh meals in line with CQC standards, Food Standards Agency guidance, and IDDSI (International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative) for texture-modified diets.
* Adapt menus to meet diverse dietary needs (e.g., allergies, diabetes, cultural/religious requirements, dementia-friendly meals).
* Work closely with carers, dieticians, and health professionals to support individualised nutrition and wellbeing.
* Ensure strict compliance with Food Hygiene, HACCP, Health & Safety, and infection control regulations.
* Manage food orders, stock rotation, and kitchen budgets effectively.
* Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming kitchen environment at all times.
* Contribute to themed meal days, special events, and activities that enrich residents' daily lives.
Qualifications
* NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent).
* Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate (minimum Level 2, ideally Level 3).
* Previous chef/cook experience in a care home, hospital, or supported living environment (essential).
* Strong knowledge of UK healthcare catering standards and dietary modifications.
* Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
* Compassion, creativity, and ability to work well under pressure.
* Certification in allergen awareness and first aid (desirable).
Ready to make a difference?
Join us at Vivid Care Services, where your skills as a Chef will directly impact the health and wellbeing of those in our care. Apply today and be part of our caring community.
Job Types: Part-time, Temporary, Temp to perm, Zero hours contract
Contract length: 12 months
Pay: £16.50-£17.50 per hour
Expected hours: 12 – 48 per week
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* Flexitime
* On-site parking
Experience:
* Chef: 1 year (required)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person