Cook/Chef

Job Overview
We are seeking a talented and passionate Cook/Chef to work 30 hours per week, To provide nutritious, appetising and safe meals that support the health, wellbeing, strength, independence and quality of life of residents living at Catterall House.

The Cook plays a vital role in promoting healthy ageing, maintaining weight, preventing malnutrition, supporting hydration and ensuring residents enjoy their meals in a positive and dignified environment.

At Catterall House, food is viewed as an essential part of care and wellbeing. The Cook is expected to actively support nutritional outcomes and contribute to residents' physical health, happiness, strength, mobility and longevity.

Key Responsibilities.

Food Preparation & Service

• Prepare and serve nutritious, balanced meals in accordance with planned menus.
• Provide suitable alternatives where residents do not wish to choose the main meal.
• Ensure meals are appetising, attractive and served at the correct temperature.
• Prepare meals that meet individual preferences, cultural requirements and dietary needs.
• Ensure food is available throughout the day for residents requiring snacks, fortified foods or additional nutritional support.
• Support special occasions, themed events and celebrations.

Nutrition & Hydration

• Understand the nutritional needs of older adults.
• Support residents to maintain a healthy weight and good nutritional status.
• Use food fortification techniques where required.
• Understand the importance of protein in maintaining strength, muscle mass and independence.
• Adapt meals to support weight gain, weight maintenance or weight reduction as directed by care plans.
• Support residents requiring texture modified diets (IDDSI).
• Report concerns regarding poor intake, weight loss, dehydration or nutritional decline.
• Work alongside care staff to support MUST action plans and nutritional interventions.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Follow Food Safety legislation and Safer Food Better Business guidance.
• Maintain excellent kitchen hygiene standards.
• Complete temperature checks and kitchen records accurately.
• Store, label and rotate food correctly.
• Report food safety concerns immediately.

Stock Control

• Monitor stock levels.
• Rotate stock appropriately.
• Minimise food waste.
• Report shortages promptly.

Team Working

• Work positively with care, housekeeping and activities staff.
• Communicate effectively regarding residents' nutritional needs.
• Attend training and meetings as required.

Essential Knowledge & Skills

• Food Hygiene Certificate.
• Understanding of nutrition in older adults.
• Understanding of hydration requirements.
• Understanding of food fortification.
• Understanding of texture modified diets (IDDSI).
• Ability to support residents requiring weight gain or weight management plans.
• Good organisational and communication skills.
• Reliable and able to work independently.

Our Philosophy

At Catterall House we believe food is an important part of care.

Meals should promote health, hydration, strength, comfort, enjoyment and dignity whilst supporting residents to live as well and as independently as possible.

Pay: £13.55 per hour

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person