Job Purpose:
To prepare and cook nutritious, high-quality meals for residents, ensuring that their dietary needs, preferences, and health requirements are met in accordance with care plans. The Chef will contribute to the overall well-being of residents by providing an enjoyable dining experience while adhering to health and safety standards.
Key Responsibilities:
Meal Preparation & Cooking:
Plan, prepare, and cook meals for residents, ensuring they are balanced, nutritious, and tailored to individual dietary needs (e.g., diabetic, vegetarian, gluten-free).
Follow care plans to meet specific dietary requirements for individual residents, including medical conditions, allergies, and cultural preferences.
Ensure that all food is cooked to the highest standards of quality, safety, and presentation.
Health & Safety:
Maintain high standards of hygiene and cleanliness in the kitchen, including regular cleaning of cooking equipment, surfaces, and utensils.
Comply with food safety regulations and maintain correct food storage practices to ensure the safety and quality of ingredients and meals.
Monitor food temperatures and ensure that food is safely stored, prepared, and served according to regulatory standards.
Resident Care:
Work closely with the care team to understand residents’ specific dietary preferences and restrictions, ensuring these are incorporated into meal planning.
Engage with residents during mealtimes, addressing any specific needs or preferences, and encouraging a positive dining experience.
Provide advice and support to the care team on special diets or feeding requirements.
Menu Planning:
Plan and create a rotating menu, ensuring variety and that nutritional needs are met.
Cater for special events, celebrations, and themed meals as requested by management or the care team.
Ensure meals are aesthetically pleasing and appealing to residents, taking into account their preferences and any food dislikes.
Inventory & Stock Management:
Assist in managing stock levels, ordering food supplies, and ensuring that the kitchen is well-equipped.
Monitor the use of ingredients to minimize food wastage.
Assist in the delivery and safe storage of food supplies.
Compliance & Reporting:
Adhere to all relevant legislation, including the Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards and health and safety regulations.
Maintain accurate records of food preparation, hygiene standards, and any relevant documentation as required by care regulations.
Teamwork & Collaboration:
Work as part of a team, supporting kitchen assistants and other staff to ensure efficient kitchen operations.
Collaborate with care staff to ensure that residents’ needs are met and that any changes to diet or health are communicated effectively.
Participate in training and development opportunities to stay up-to-date with food safety standards and care regulations.
Person Specification:
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
Previous experience as a chef, ideally within a care home or similar residential setting.
Food hygiene certificate (Level 2 Food Safety or equivalent).
Understanding of nutritional requirements for older adults or individuals with specific health conditions (e.g., dementia, diabetes).
Ability to cater to a range of dietary needs and preferences, including allergies and cultural considerations.
Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, as required for working with vulnerable adults.
NOTE: WE DO NOT PROVIDE SPONSORSHIP. WE ARE NOT CONSIDERING OVERSEAS CANDIDATES FOR THIS POSITION.