Sociable Hours. Supportive Team. Real Impact Through Nutrition. We’re looking for a motivated and skilled Assistant Chef who wants more than just a job someone who values balance, supports the kitchen team with energy and care, and takes pride in contributing to a positive, collaborative environment. In this role, you’ll play a key part in delivering high-quality meals that support residents’ wellbeing, respect individual needs, and bring comfort and enjoyment to everyday life. This role includes preparing fresh, nutritious meals for up to 57 residents, as well as supporting the catering for the home’s events and celebrations. It’s a 38‑hour contract at £13.00 per hour with 07:30–17:30 shifts, no late nights, and alternate weekends, giving you the work/life balance most chefs only dream of. Our interview process is completed in one visit: a short, friendly interview, giving you the opportunity to learn more about the role and share your experience, skills, and passion for great food. About Ashlands Manor Care Home Ashlands Manor is a purpose-built care home facility in Sale, South Manchester. The home is registered to provide care to 57 residents who have a variety of care needs including residential, nursing and dementia residential. The home reflects the Lovett Care vision of providing the highest standards of safety, comfort and care. The home is rated GOOD in all domains by CQC. We provide the highest standards of safety, comfort and care to residents. We are in a great location and have a very good local reputation. The home reflects the Lovett Care vision of providing the highest standards of safety, comfort and care. We invest in the latest technology and offer a purposeful programme of daily activity and gentle exercise to enhance the experience, care and wellbeing of our residents. All team members are hand selected for their warmth and passion; they have a full induction and ongoing training from our in-house trainers. Across Lovett Care all of our staff are paid the national minimum wage or above. Role Responsibilities Present menus clearly to support resident choice Prepare meals in appropriate quantities, meeting medical, cultural, and personal dietary needs Deliver nutritious, well‑presented meals on time and in the correct sequence Maintain full compliance with HACCP procedures Uphold excellent hygiene and cleanliness standards, including accurate cleaning records Lead and support the kitchen team in the Head Chef’s absence Motivate and inspire colleagues to consistently deliver high‑quality food Skills and Experience Experience working during busy service periods Previous experience in a care home or similar setting Understanding of specialised diets and tailored service Ability to contribute to a four‑week menu cycle Confidence in completing records to meet legal requirements Benefits Clear progression routes into senior and management roles 5.6 weeks annual leave Paid DBS Uniform provided Paid training and excellent induction Refer a Friend scheme (role‑dependent) Support for nationally recognised qualifications Cycle to Work scheme Wellbeing programmes Recognition awards (Employee of the Month, Golden Tickets) Ongoing career development Travel plan: walk or cycle to work and enjoy a free meal that day Pension scheme Early Pay access About Lovett Care At Lovett, we believe our elders deserve more — more dignity, more respect, more joy, and more belonging. Our homes are vibrant communities where people continue to thrive, connect, and enjoy meaningful moments. When you join Lovett, you join a team that sees every resident as someone with a story to share and a life still full of possibility.