Kitchen Assistant - Bank

ROLE PURPOSE

The Kitchen Assistant supports the smooth running of the kitchen by assisting with food preparation, maintaining hygiene standards, and ensuring that residents receive nutritious and appealing meals. This role is essential in supporting the Head Chef and kitchen team to provide high-quality catering in a safe and caring environment.

This role is advertised on a Bank basis meaning that there are no fixed hours and the work will be as and when needed.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

FOOD PREPARATION & SERVICE

• Assist in preparing ingredients and meals under the supervision of the Chef or Head Chef.
• Help with portioning, plating, and presentation of meals for residents.
• Prepare snacks, desserts, and simple dishes as required.
• Support the preparation of texture-modified meals and special diets.
• Ensure food is served safely and promptly.

KITCHEN HYGIENE & SAFETY

• Maintain a clean and tidy kitchen environment, including washing up, loading and unloading of the dishwasher, cleaning surfaces, and sanitising equipment. This includes the main kitchen and kitchenettes.
• Follow all food hygiene and safety procedures in line with legislation and the care home’s policies.
• Ensure correct use of kitchen equipment and report any faults or issues.
• Dispose of waste safely and maintain recycling procedures.
• Comply with uniform and personal hygiene standards.

SUPPORT & TEAMWORK

• Assist the kitchen team with stock rotation, checking deliveries, and storing supplies correctly.
• Maintain stock levels within the kitchenettes.
• Support the Head Chef and other kitchen staff in daily tasks as needed.
• Participate in training and development activities.
• Work collaboratively with care staff and other colleagues to meet residents’ needs.

RESIDENT ENGAGEMENT

• Help ensure residents receive the correct meals and dietary needs are met.
• Liaise with the activities team for home events and support in the preparation and providing of snacks and/or drinks as required during events or activities.

OTHER DUTIES

• Carry out any reasonable tasks to support the kitchen and care home operations.
• Be flexible with duties and hours to meet the needs of the home.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

· Basic understanding of food hygiene (training will be provided if required).

· Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.

· Willingness to learn and develop in a kitchen environment.

· Caring and respectful attitude towards residents.

· Physical ability to carry out kitchen duties.

· Reliable, punctual, and flexible approach to shifts.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

· Previous experience in a kitchen or catering environment.

· Knowledge of dietary needs of older people.

· Awareness of food safety standards and regulations.

· Experience working in a care home or with vulnerable adults.

Pay: £13.45 per hour

Work Location: In person