At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in providing top-notch meal services to patients at Darlington Memorial Hospital.
- Company: CDD Services is a subsidiary of County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, focused on non-clinical services.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, performance bonuses, pension contributions, and flexible working options.
- Other info: This role may involve night shifts and bank work on an 'as and when' basis.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team making a real difference in patient care while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Level 2 Certificate in Food Hygiene or working towards it; effective communication skills required.
The Ward Hostess/Host role is responsible for the efficient and effective service of meal ordering, beverages and meals to patients at ward level to support ward clinical staff in the provision of a highly professional catering service at Darlington Memorial Hospital. This role would be expected to follow the duties laid out by the Food Services Manager in the day to day operational management of food service to patients and to ensure that a high quality, food safety and cost effective service at all times.
Main duties of the job:
- To work under the direction of the Food Services Manager in the reheating of nutritious and appetizing meals for all patients, to the highest possible standards nutritional, temperature, quality, presentation, hygiene and safety.
- To be involved in the electronic patient meal ordering.
- Ensure high standards of food service, reheating of food and ensuring quality control process throughout.
- To ensure temperature monitoring and recording of all reheating of food in accordance with standards as laid down in the Catering Departments Policies and Procedures and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP).
- Assist with receipt, quality assurance and stock control of goods received from the Central Production Unit (CPU). Correct storage and security of goods, adhering to stock rotation practices in accordance with kitchen HACCP.
- Assist in Hygiene Audits and Cleaning Schedules inspections for your area of work is completed weekly, liaising with the Food Service Supervisors to ensure that any remedial work is carried out.
- To assist in the general cleaning of crockery and kitchen utensils using the dishwashing machine and by hand when required.
Job responsibilities:
- To support and assist the Food Services Supervisor and Food Service Manager in the provision of a highly professional catering service at Darlington Memorial Hospital and to ensure that high quality standards are met at all times.
- To follow the policies and procedures laid down by the catering services in the day to day operational management of food service and to ensure a high quality and cost effective service.
- To ensure that food safety and allergen regulations are adhered to at all times.
- Provide and maintain a highly customer focused service to all users.
- Ensure that communication channels are maintained between appropriate staff / visitor / patient groups with regard to patient catering.
- Work in a safe manner so that no other persons are put at risk whilst completing the required duties.
- Initially deal with any complaints / comments regarding the service in a courteous manner from Trust staff or patients.
- Developing staff preferences, promoting flexible working arrangements, and encourage change of working practice following major life changing events.
Person Specification:
- Special Requirements:
- Essential: Natural & enthusiastic staff member.
- Desirable: Knowledge of catering sector.
- Experience:
- Essential: Effective interpersonal skills.
- Desirable: Industry experience within catering services.
- Special Skills & Knowledge:
- Essential: Able to work with minimal supervision following set procedures.
- Desirable: Flexible approach to work and adaptable to change.
- Qualifications:
- Essential: Level 2 Certificate in Food Hygiene or working towards it.
- Desirable: A good standard of literacy and numeracy.
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer details:
- Employer name: CDD Services (Synchronicity Care Ltd)
- Address: University Hospital Of North Durham, North Road, Durham, DH1 5TW
Reactive Catering Assistant in Durham employer: CDD Services (Synchronicity Care Ltd)
At CDD Services, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Located at Darlington Memorial Hospital, our team enjoys competitive salaries, performance-related bonuses, and flexible working arrangements, all while contributing to a vital service that impacts patient care positively. Join us to be part of a dedicated team where your contributions are valued and recognised.
Contact Detail:
CDD Services (Synchronicity Care Ltd) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reactive Catering Assistant in Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific food safety and allergen regulations mentioned in the job description. Understanding these guidelines will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards in food service.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your interpersonal skills by preparing examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous roles. This is crucial for a position that requires interaction with patients and staff, so be ready to discuss your experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Research CDD Services and their approach to catering within the NHS framework. Understanding their values and mission can help you align your answers during the interview, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility and adaptability in the workplace. Since the role may involve changes in working practices, sharing examples of how you've successfully adapted to change in past jobs will highlight your suitability for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Reactive Catering Assistant in Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in catering or food service. Emphasise any roles where you demonstrated effective interpersonal skills and adherence to food safety standards.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific duties from the job description that excite you, such as ensuring high-quality food service and maintaining hygiene standards.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:If you have a Level 2 Certificate in Food Hygiene or are working towards it, make this clear in your application. Also, mention any other relevant qualifications or training that align with the job requirements.
Showcase Your Customer Service Skills:Since the role involves providing a highly customer-focused service, include examples of how you've successfully dealt with customer complaints or provided excellent service in previous positions.
How to prepare for a job interview at CDD Services (Synchronicity Care Ltd)
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
As a Reactive Catering Assistant, it's essential to demonstrate your natural enthusiasm for the role. Be sure to express your passion for providing excellent service and how you enjoy working in a team environment.
✨Know Your Food Safety Standards
Familiarise yourself with food safety regulations and HACCP principles. During the interview, mention any relevant training or certifications you have, such as a Level 2 Certificate in Food Hygiene, to show that you take food safety seriously.
✨Highlight Your Interpersonal Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully interacted with customers or colleagues in previous positions, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
The catering environment can be dynamic, so it's important to showcase your ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Share experiences where you've had to adjust your approach or work practices to meet new challenges.
