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£13.57 per hour
Location: Thornton Hall & Lodge Care Home – 16–18 Tanhouse Road, Crosby, Thornton, Liverpool, Merseyside, L23 1UB
Introduction to the role
A talented Chef can bring to life a few ingredients that evoke memories of the past and bring warmth to an individual. Orchard Care Homes values its kitchen staff, and we reward colleagues with training, support and the freedom to cook up a storm. Working with the Home Manager and care staff, you will create nutritious and balanced meals that cater for the individual needs of those living in the home. You will supervise a dedicated team to prepare daily meals, manage the food orders, stock levels and maintenance of vital equipment. Following food safety guidelines, you will ensure the kitchen is fit for purpose and able to complete the daily meals on time.
Main Duties
 * Plan, prepare and cook a variety of meals that are appealing, nutritious and centred around the individuals’ preferences, requests or any special dietary requirements, following Orchard Care Homes’ Good Food Guide and making amendments after authorisation from the Support Centre.
 * Be active and encouraging, provide advice and guidance for the team ensuring the Care Home is a friendly, supportive working environment.
 * Understand and comply with all statutory and legal requirements such as HACCP, Health & Safety, COSHH, Environmental Health, the Care Standards Act, and Infection Prevention and Control policies to maintain a safe environment.
 * Implement, monitor and maintain cleaning schedules that meet the Food Safety Manual, ensuring all kitchen areas are immaculately clean, including washing up pots, pans and dishes when required.
 * Ensure sufficient food stocks are ordered and received from approved suppliers and that stock rotation maintains optimum freshness of all foodstuffs, ensuring the highest quality within Orchard Care Home.
Desirable
Knowledge of texture modified diets and food allergens, and creating specific meal plans to suit an individual’s needs.
Benefits
 * Access to Blue Light Discount Card.
 * Excellent training and progression opportunities from day one.
 * Recognition schemes such as ‘Making a Difference’ and an annual awards ceremony.
 * Free uniform and car parking.
 * Access to our 24/7 Employee Support Hub offering confidential support on personal and professional issues.
About Orchard Care Homes
Thornton Hall & Lodge is a bright and spacious purpose‑built home that specialises in care for older people, providing 24‑hour residential care for 48 residents and round‑the‑clock dementia care for an additional 48 residents. Orchard Care Homes has been providing care for older people for over 15 years. We are committed to being at the heart of the local community and delivering the same level of care that we would all wish for our loved ones. We believe in investing in our people; your professional development will be actively encouraged, with plenty of training and progression opportunities across our portfolio of homes.
We proudly support the Armed Forces community and welcome applications from veterans, reservists, and military spouses as part of our commitment to the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. We value the unique skills and experiences that service personnel bring and are dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
Seniority level
 * Entry level
Employment type
 * Full‑time
Job function
 * Management and Manufacturing
Industry
 * Hospitals and Health Care
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