We are currently recruiting for a reliable Relief Chef/Cook to join our Client's team on a temporary basis.
Working within a 5-star rated kitchen, you will provide nutritious, appetising meals while ensuring the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and dietary compliance. The successful candidate will be confident working in a healthcare environment where attention to detail, compassion and patient safety are essential.
Essential Qualifications
Applicants must hold:
* Level 2 Food Safety in Catering (or higher)
* Food Allergen Awareness Certification
* Relevant culinary qualification or significant professional cooking experience
* Hold a valid DBS or be willing to undergo a DBS check
Essential Skills & Experience
* Previous experience as a Chef or Cook in a hospice, hospital, care home or healthcare setting
* Understanding of, or ability to work strictly within, IDDSI guidelines for texture-modified diets
* Strong knowledge of allergen management and cross-contamination prevention
* Experience completing Safer Food Better Business (SFBB) documentation
* Excellent communication skills and fluent spoken English
* Ability to work calmly and professionally in a sensitive care environment
Key Responsibilities
* Prepare and serve meals in accordance with approved recipes and portion controls
* Produce high-quality main meals, soups and desserts through batch cooking methods
* Ensure all patient dietary requirements, allergies and texture-modified diets are followed accurately
* Collect and process patient meal orders daily
* Complete preparation tasks for the following day's service
* Maintain accurate food safety records, including temperature monitoring and cleaning schedules
* Follow all colour-coded food preparation and allergen control procedures
* Adhere to Clean As You Go (CLAYGO) standards at all times
* Monitor stock levels and report shortages to the Catering Manager
* Work collaboratively with catering, nursing and clinical teams to support patient care
Professional Expectations
* Be ready to commence duties at 07:55 or 11:55
* Remain available on the kitchen floor until 13:45 or 17:45 unless authorised otherwise
* Demonstrate reliability, punctuality and the ability to work independently
* Adapt quickly to changing patient needs, including urgent dietary requests and late admissions
* Understand the importance of maintaining dignity, respect and exceptional standards when supporting patients receiving hospice care
This position would suit an experienced chef who takes pride in delivering excellent food and understands the important role catering plays in providing comfort, care and dignity.
This is a trmporary position but may lead to longer-term for the right candidate