We are recruiting on behalf of Brighton & Hove City Council for an experienced and compassionate Ad-Hoc Chef to provide nutritious meals for up to 24 residents at a local hostel supporting single homeless adults with complex needs. The hostel offers a safe, short-term environment for people dealing with substance use, mental health issues, and homelessness, helping them work toward independence.
This role is ideal for someone in a permanent role who is looking to pick up additional hours on an ad-hoc basis.
Key Responsibilities:
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Independently plan, prepare, and cook hot lunches and cold evening meals for up to 24 residents.
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Create fresh soups and cakes using available ingredients.
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Follow a pre-arranged menu (no ordering responsibilities).
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Ensure meals meet nutritional standards with sensitivity to food insecurity, allergies, and dietary needs.
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Maintain strict hygiene and food safety standards, including labelling, dating, and temperature checks.
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Keep accurate kitchen records including cleaning schedules, waste logs, and HACCP documentation.
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Manage the kitchen single-handedly – no KP or Catering Assistant provided.
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Liaise professionally with hostel staff and attend briefings as needed.
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Engage with residents to gather feedback and adjust food service to meet their needs.
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Promote environmentally sustainable and inclusive kitchen practices.
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Follow safeguarding procedures and respond to concerns appropriately.
Person Specification:
Essential:
Minimum 6 months experience cooking balanced meals in a professional or community kitchen (preferably in a hostel or similar setting).
Experience catering for large groups (up to 30 people) within structured meal times.
Competent in managing food stocks, rotation, and waste minimisation.
Valid Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to obtain).
Accurate record-keeping skills (temperature logs, HACCP, cleaning).
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Organised and punctual, with strong time management abilities.
Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and BHCC values.
Ability to work independently, yet collaboratively with hostel staff.
Desirable:
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Experience supporting people with food insecurity, substance misuse, or mental health needs.
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NVQ Level 2 in Food Safety or equivalent.
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Safeguarding training or willingness to complete it.
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Prior experience working with individuals with challenging behaviours.
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Understanding of professional boundaries when supporting vulnerable adults.
Skills & Competencies:
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Strong verbal and written communication
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Active listening and observational skills
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Conflict resolution and mediation
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Ability to remain calm under pressure and manage stress
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Reflective, adaptable, and non-judgmental approach
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High levels of compassion, optimism, and problem-solving
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Commitment to continuous improvement and feedback integration
Outcomes You Will Contribute To:
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Improved confidence, self-esteem, and independence of residents
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Better employment prospects and readiness for work among service users
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Reduced stigma and increased community acceptance of people experiencing homelessness