Cook

3 Month Contract With A Local Authority

• We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Cook to join our team in a residential care home setting. The Cook will be responsible for planning, preparing, and cooking nutritious, well-balanced meals that meet the dietary, cultural, and individual needs of our residents – primarily older adults aged 65+ living with dementia. This role includes responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, including food ordering, stock rotation, compliance with CQC and Environmental Health standards, and maintaining a safe and hygienic kitchen environment.
  
  
  

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and cook fresh, nutritious meals on a daily basis for residents, ensuring choice and variety, including cultural and dietary-specific meals.
  




• Plan menus in consultation with management and residents, ensuring meals are balanced and appropriate for older people, including those with dementia.
  




• Take overall responsibility for the safe and efficient operation of the kitchen.
  




• Order food and supplies, monitor deliveries, and maintain appropriate stock levels, ensuring proper stock rotation and minimising waste.
  




• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and food safety, in line with CQC and Environmental Health requirements.
  




• Ensure all records (e.g. temperatures, deliveries, cleaning logs) are accurately and promptly completed.
  




• Understand and apply knowledge of dietary needs, including texture-modified diets, allergies, diabetes, and low-sodium requirements.
  




• Maintain knowledge of health and safety regulations and follow safe working procedures at all times.
  




• Attend training and development opportunities as required, including updates in food hygiene, safeguarding, and nutrition.
  

Requirements:

• Minimum Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
  




• Relevant catering or cooking qualification (e.g. NVQ in Catering or equivalent).
  




• Understanding of the dietary needs and preferences of older adults, including those living with dementia.
  




• Ability to maintain accurate records and work within regulatory guidelines.
  




• Basic knowledge of health & safety, infection control, and kitchen processes.
  




• Willingness to attend ongoing training relevant to the role.
  




• Enhanced DBS clearance (or willingness to undergo one).