At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare delicious meals for elderly residents and create a warm, supportive environment.
- Company: Join Abbeyfield & Wesley, a caring Housing Association dedicated to enhancing the lives of older people.
- Benefits: Earn £12.90 per hour with flexible hours and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Full training provided, with opportunities for personal development and growth.
- Why this job: Combine your love for cooking with compassion for others in a fulfilling role.
- Qualifications: Empathy for elderly residents and ability to prepare meals for up to 10 people.
The predicted salary is between 12.9 - 12.9 £ per hour.
All successful applicants will also be required to provide documentary evidence of their right to work in the UK. Please note Abbeyfield & Wesley Housing Association do not hold a license to sponsor Working Visa's. Applicants who have applied within the last 6 months need not apply on this occasion.
Location: Causeway Area (Ballymena)
Hours: As and when required
Rate of Pay: £12.90 per hour
Closing date: 13th August 2026
Do you enjoy cooking at home for your family? Do you have empathy with older people and enjoy their company? Abbeyfield & Wesley is pleased to advertise for a Supported Sheltered Cook (Casual), to join our older peoples Supported Living team. The successful Candidate will be a key player in the successful running of the House, delivering the excellent service Abbeyfield & Wesley is renowned for.
This key post will involve:
- Preparing nutritious home cooked meals for up to 10 residents.
- Being aware of our residents dietary requirements.
- Maintaining excellent standards of Food Safety & Hygiene; full training will be given.
- Encouraging a supportive, homely and secure environment for our Residents.
Working in conjunction with the House Manager, the Supported Sheltered Cook (Casual), will assist in the preparation of meals for Residents, ensure that Health and Safety standards are being met, take part in drills relating to fire safety protocols and actively encourage a fantastic level of service for all Residents. This is a truly fulfilling role within a Housing Association dedicated to encouraging enhanced quality of life, dignity and respect for elderly people within our communities.
Main Duties:
- Prepare and cook nutritious meals for Residents from the agreed menu, taking into account any special dietary requirements as necessary.
- Maintain excellent standards of Food Safety & Hygiene and complete mandatory training as necessary.
- Follow all cleaning procedures and schedules for the kitchen.
- Adhere to Health and Safety requirements within the House.
- Encourage a supportive, homely and secure environment for the Residents.
- Support residents by dealing with their queries.
- Be the Abbeyfield & Wesley representative whilst in the House when interacting with visitors, answering the phone or dealing with prospective Residents.
- In the event of an emergency, keep calm and ensure to contact the correct people, which may involve making emergency calls for medical assistance or to Residents next of kin.
Reporting Structure:
You will report directly to the House Manager or senior in charge of duty in their absence.
Essential Criteria:
- Ability to prepare meals for up to 10 people as per our seasonal menus.
- Demonstrate an empathy and understanding of the needs of our elderly residents.
- Excellent communication skills.
- A desire to encourage dignity, respect and quality of living for older people.
- Proven ability to work on own initiative.
Desirable Criteria:
- Food Safety qualification.
- First Aid in the workplace qualifications.
- A willingness to achieve necessary qualifications to further develop your expertise and standards of service.
This job description is not exhaustive, nor does it cover every issue that may arise within this role at various times. It is not designed to be rigid or inflexible but does provide guidelines as to the expected duties undertaken whilst in post.
Abbeyfield & Wesley welcomes applications from all sectors of the community irrespective of age, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or disability.
This post involves substantial access to vulnerable adults and children, therefore, as part of the selection process, Abbeyfield & Wesley requires an Enhanced Disclosure Check to be carried out through Access NI. Following interview, the preferred candidate will be offered the post subject to satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure Check.
Supported Sheltered Cook (Casual) in Ballymena employer: Abbeyfield & Wesley
Abbeyfield & Wesley Housing Association is an exceptional employer, offering a fulfilling role as a Casual Night Sleepover staff member in East Antrim. With a strong commitment to enhancing the quality of life for elderly residents, the Association fosters a supportive and respectful work culture, providing opportunities for personal growth and development. Employees enjoy competitive pay, a collaborative team environment, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in their community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supported Sheltered Cook (Casual) in Ballymena
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Walk-Ins
In the hospitality and food service game, a personal touch goes a long way. Instead of waiting for listings, why not walk into local restaurants, cafes, or hotels? Bring your best smile and a CV, and show them that you're eager to join their team right on the spot!
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We think you need these skills to ace Supported Sheltered Cook (Casual) in Ballymena
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service game, your ability to connect with customers is key. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience in your CV, like working in cafes or restaurants, and emphasise your skills in teamwork and communication. Don't forget to mention any customer service training or certifications you've got under your belt!
Flexibility is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary role, you'll want to showcase your flexibility in your application. In your cover letter, mention your availability and willingness to work various shifts, including weekends or holidays. Employers love knowing they can rely on you during busy periods!
Bring Your Personality to the Front:In hospitality, it's not just about what you can do; it's about who you are! Let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A warm, engaging tone can really make your application stand out and show your potential to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
Include Relevant References:References can make a huge difference in the hospitality-field. Consider including a couple of references from previous employers or colleagues in your CV who can vouch for your customer service skills and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. This adds credibility and elevates your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Abbeyfield & Wesley
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service sector, it's all about the customer experience. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer or handled a difficult situation. They’ll appreciate knowing that you can keep your cool and maintain a positive attitude even when things get a bit hectic!
✨Know Your Menu Inside and Out
Whether you're applying for a temporary role as a server or in the kitchen, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the menu and any signature dishes they serve at Abbeyfield & Wesley. During the interview, they might ask about your food and drink recommendations, so having a few tasty suggestions up your sleeve will show you're genuinely interested in contributing to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Temporary roles often require a bit of juggling with shifts and responsibilities. Be sure to convey your willingness to adapt and take on different roles as needed. Share instances where you’ve quickly switched tasks or taken the initiative to help out your colleagues, showing that you're a team player.
✨Dress the Part and Exude Personality
In hospitality, first impressions matter! Even for a temporary position, donning smart-casual attire can set the right tone. Plus, don't hold back on your personality – let your enthusiasm shine through, as they’re looking for someone who can mesh well with the team and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
