We are a reputable and caring healthcare provider committed to delivering high-quality care and support to our residents. We believe that nutritious, well-balanced, and appetising meals are central to wellbeing, recovery, and quality of life. Our team works in line with CQC Fundamental Standards, NICE Nutrition and Hydration Guidelines (NG24), and Food Standards Agency requirements to maintain safe and effective catering operations.
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and Qualified Chef to join our dedicated catering team. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing and delivering high-quality, nutritionally balanced meals that meet the dietary needs of our residents, including those with specialist requirements such as diabetic, vegetarian, texture-modified, or allergen-free diets.
You will ensure compliance with food hygiene regulations, infection control procedures, and health and safety legislation, maintaining excellent kitchen standards in accordance with Environmental Health, CQC, and RCN best practice recommendations.
Key Responsibilities
* Plan, prepare, and cook nutritious meals in line with residents’ care plans, preferences, and dietary needs.
* Maintain full compliance with Food Safety and Hygiene Regulations (Regulation (EC) No 852/2004).
* Manage stock control, ordering, and storage in accordance with HACCP principles.
* Ensure all kitchen records, temperature logs, and cleaning schedules are accurately maintained.
* Work collaboratively with care and nursing teams to support person-centred nutrition and hydration.
* Supervise kitchen assistants and ensure ongoing training in food safety and allergen management.
* Contribute to menu planning and resident satisfaction initiatives.
* Uphold a clean, safe, and well-organised working environment at all times.
Qualifications and Experience
Essential:
* NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Professional Cookery / Catering or equivalent recognised qualification.
* Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate (minimum).
* Proven experience as a Chef within a care home, healthcare, or hospitality environment.
* Strong understanding of dietary requirements, allergens, and texture-modified diets.
* Knowledge of Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, COSHH, and Manual Handling Regulations.
Desirable:
* Experience in menu planning for vulnerable adults or older people.
* Supervisory or leadership experience within a kitchen setting.
* Awareness of NICE nutrition guidelines and CQC inspection standards related to food provision.
What We Offer
* £15:00 P/H
* Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
* Supportive and inclusive working environment.
* Access to wellbeing initiatives and staff support programmes.
* Opportunities for career progression within a growing organisation.