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- Tasks: Prepare delicious meals and ensure a fantastic dining experience for residents.
- Company: Join EQ Care Group, a compassionate provider of exceptional elderly care.
- Benefits: Enjoy a birthday day off, competitive salary, and free meals on shift.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking and a passion for providing excellent service.
- Other info: Opportunities for continuous training and career growth in a warm environment.
The predicted salary is between 22400 - 33600 £ per year.
£28,080 per annum 40 hours per week to include alternate weekends
Acer Lodge, Eleanor Street, Blackburn, BB1 1GA
As the Cook at Acer Lodge, you will be placed at the heart of the home along with the people that live here. You will work alongside the Head Chef and deputise in their absence. You will prepare and provide both nutritionally and satisfying meals for all residents. You will be part of the catering team and work closely with other departments making sure that the highest service standards are met. You will ensure that the mealtime experience is exceptional for every person regardless of their needs, including cultural/religious as well as medical needs such as IDDSI diet. Together with The Head Chef, you will maintain a safe working environment and lead by example.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Liaise with residents to ensure they are happy with the food and beverages being provided within the home including attending resident dining experience committees.
- Ensure the cleanliness of the kitchen and hygiene standards are achieved and maintained and is fit for EHO inspection at all times.
- Ensure that the rota is covered and the correct level of team members are on shift.
- Attend and actively contribute to team meetings.
- Perform any additional duties as assigned by the Head Chef / Home Manager to support the overall functioning of the home.
Skills, Qualifications and Abilities
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience within a similar environment desirable.
- NVQ Level 2 in Food Production & Cooking (or equivalent) or a willingness to complete this qualification if not already obtained.
- Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Office and internal applications; with the ability to learn new systems quickly.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also being self-motivated and capable of working independently.
The Company and Care Home
EQ Care Group is a trusted provider of exceptional elderly care, dedicated to creating warm, compassionate environments where individuals can truly thrive. Operating for three years now, we currently have five homes open, with more being built to expand our portfolio. We specialise in delivering high-quality care to those who need it most, with a focus on dementia care and other complex needs. Our approach goes beyond simply meeting physical needs—we strive to create meaningful, enriching experiences for the people living in our homes. What sets us apart is our commitment to emotional intelligence, compassionate service, and personalised care.
Acer Lodge opened in July 2024; a 70 bed nursing and dementia specialist care home in the heart of Blackburn, combines modern comfort with classic charm, offering a welcoming home for people who need care & support. With spacious en-suite bedrooms, spectacular communal areas, and beautiful gardens, Acer Lodge is a place to live well and thrive. We are looking for people to join our heart-centred team who will provide exceptional, personalised care, ensuring everyone feels valued, supported, and at home at Acer Lodge.
Benefits of working at EQ Care
- Day off for your birthday start your celebrations early!
- Blue Light Discount Card access exclusive savings and offers.
- 28 days of annual leave (pro rata) enjoy a healthy work-life balance.
- Salary advance scheme (Level) access earned pay when you need it.
- Contributory pension helping you plan for your future.
- Dedicated Learning & Development continuous training and career growth opportunities.
- Team member rewards recognising and celebrating your hard work.
- Free meals on shift enjoy a meal on us while you work.
- Free tax review service making sure you keep more of what you earn.
- Refer a friend scheme earn up to £500 for successful referrals! (Terms apply)
Please note: If you are not a UK resident, you must already have the legal right to work in the UK, with at least 14 months remaining on your visa. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship.
This job description may differ as new information technology, policies and contractual agreements change, and we reserve the right to vary duties without notice.
Cook (care home experience) in Preston employer: EQ Care Group
Contact Detail:
EQ Care Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook (care home experience) in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, check out EQ Care Group's values and mission. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their heart-centred team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your experience aligns with the role of Cook, especially your care home experience and ability to cater to diverse dietary needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for cooking! Bring along a portfolio of your best dishes or even a few recipes that highlight your skills. This can really impress the Head Chef and demonstrate your commitment to providing exceptional meals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that shows you’re keen and professional, and it keeps you fresh in their minds!
We think you need these skills to ace Cook (care home experience) in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Cooking: When you write your application, let us know why you love cooking and how it connects to providing care. Share any experiences you've had in similar environments, especially if you've worked with residents before!
Highlight Your Team Spirit: We’re all about collaboration here at Acer Lodge. Make sure to mention any teamwork experiences you’ve had, especially in a kitchen setting. We want to see how you can contribute to our heart-centred team!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, and don’t forget to proofread for any typos or errors. We appreciate attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our values there!
How to prepare for a job interview at EQ Care Group
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the dietary needs and preferences of residents, especially those with specific cultural or medical requirements. This shows that you understand the importance of personalised care in a care home setting.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with the catering team and other departments. Share examples of how you've contributed to team success in previous roles, as this is crucial for maintaining high service standards.
✨Hygiene is Key
Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of kitchen hygiene standards and food safety regulations. Mention any relevant experience you have in maintaining cleanliness and preparing for inspections, as this is vital in a care home environment.
✨Communicate with Confidence
Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing how you would engage with residents about their dining experiences.