Cornerstone Healthcare is looking for an experienced and passionate Second Chef to join our award-winning team at Kitnocks House on a 12-month Fixed-term contract.
Kitnocks House is a 63-bed service made up of four specialised units, each offering high-quality care tailored to the individual needs of our residents. We support people with a range of complex conditions, always focusing on the person behind the diagnosis. We’re proud to be rated Good by the CQC.
What hours will you work?
Working for us gives you more time for you with a 7 out of 14 day working pattern
- Week A – 3 days: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday (06.45 to 17.15)
- Week B – 4 days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday (06:45 to 17.15)
Total average of 42 hours worked per week
What will you be doing?
- Working closely alongside the Head Chef and kitchen staff to plan and prepare nutritious meals for residents
- Ensure food is prepared in line with IDDSI guidelines and meets the requirements of the residents as identified by the clinical team
- In the absence of the Head Chef visit all new residents and/or liaise with the Nurse to ensure all new admissions dietary needs are known
- Listen to feedback from staff, resident and relatives about the food choices and quality and implement changes based on this
- Ensure all working practice and the kitchen management is operating in line with Health & Safety, Infection Prevention & Control, Food Hygiene Standards and COSHH
- Represent the home in in the absence of the Head Chef for any unannounced inspections such as Environmental Health Inspections and then share any actions or improvement arising from this with the Head Chef.
- Ensure food prepared and served looks appetizing and appealing and care and attention is taken by all that serve this
- In the absence of the Head Chef visit all new residents and/or liaise with the Nurse to ensure all new admissions dietary needs are known.
- Ensure the kitchen is kept to a high standard of cleanliness, ensuring opening and close down procedures are followed and recorded.
What do you need?
- Minimum 1 years’ experience working as a Chef in a Care Home
- Understanding of COSHH, Food Hygiene and Regulations surrounding food safety
- IDDSI/Specialist diet provision experience (essential)
- Strong knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices
- Ability to support the Head Chef in menu planning, food preparation, and ensuring high-quality standards are met.
- A high level of written and spoken English to communicate effectively with kitchen staff and other departments.
- Strong leadership and organisational skills to manage kitchen staff and ensure smooth daily operations.
- A creative approach to food preparation, menu development, and presentation.
- Ability to manage inventory, control costs, and ensure that kitchen operations run efficiently.
- Flexibility and adaptability to changing needs and special dietary requirements.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail and consistency.
- A proactive, positive attitude with a commitment to delivering excellent service in a care setting.
Benefits package worth up to £5,000 T&C's apply
- Enhanced pay for overtime and bank holidays
- Monthly overtime raffle – win an extra £200 for picking up shifts
- Refer a friend scheme – earn up to £1,000
- Fully funded RQF Level 2 or 3 in Health & Social Care
- Healthcare cash plan worth up to £700 – includes dental, optical and 24/7 mental health support
- Free uniform laundered for you on site ready for your next shift
- Subsidised lunch on site
- Recognition and rewards – vouchers, cash bonuses, and long service treats
- Access to the Blue Light Card – over 13,000 discounts
- And much more!
second chef / head chef / kitchen assistant / care home / cook / kitchen manager / assistant chef