Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our kitchen team as a Cook, preparing meals and supporting menu planning.
- Company: Holmes Court is a new residential home in Ballymena, focused on specialist care for adults.
- Benefits: Enjoy paid leave, competitive pay, training opportunities, and free parking.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives while working in a supportive, values-led environment.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2 years cooking experience and a basic Food Safety certificate required.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to high-quality care and personal development.
Are you an experienced Cookwith a passion for food? The Home Braefield Nursing Home is based in the picturesque village of Connor, located between Antrim and Ballymena. Braefield is a 56 bedded Nursing Home spread over 3 units. Braefield Nursing Home is currently registered with the RQIA for 18 individuals with nursing and mental health needs, 17 individuals with physical disability requiring nursing needs and 21 individuals with dementia nursing needs. The categories of care we cater to are Mental Health Nursing, Frail and Elderly Nursing, and Dementia Nursing. The team at Braefield Nursing Home are very dedicated in providing a high standard of person-centred care. The Role The food our residents eat plays a key part in the care we offer and as a result, the role of Cook is essential in our mission to provide excellent care. The Cook works closely with the Chef, supporting with menu planning, meal preparation, kitchen management and ensuring compliance with the necessary regulatory standards. The Cook has a meaningful impact on the health and wellbeing of our residents through the provision of high-quality, person-centred dining experiences. This role is about a lot more than preparing meals, this role is essential in ensuring the dietary needs of our residents are met in addition to managing a safe and positive working environment for the team. 37Hours/week About The Role Main Responsibilities Support the kitchen team along with the Chef, providing the necessary training and support, encouraging development, motivation and best practice. Effective and efficient planning, preparation, and delivery of all aspects of food preparation and cooking Ensuring operational standards comply Assist with monitoring the homes catering budget Assist with developingand creatingvaried and interesting menus Ensurethat stock ordering and rotation is organised in an efficient and cost-effective manner Undertake any other duties that may be reasonably required as designated by the Home Manager. The Benefits: Paid annual leave The chance to be part of a growing healthcare company Continuous professional development and training Values-led culture Overtime available at an enhanced rate Opportunities for progression Pension plan (if applicable) Attractive hourly rate Access NI fee paid for Uniforms and PPE provided Monthly incentives and recognition awards Free parking We do not offer sponsorship for this role . Healthcare Ireland are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons. Required Criteria Right to Work in the UK. Minimum 2 years experience as Cook in a food preparation/ kitchen environment or a similar role. Hold a basic Food Safety certificate. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Basic understanding of the dietary needs, nutritional and cultural requirements of elderly people. The ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail. Have basic knowledge of HACCP, COSHH and Health and Safety. Desired Criteria Experience in a care home or healthcare environment is desirable but not essential. Skills Needed About The Company We are passionate about providing the highest standards of care in safe, positive and flexible environments, which enable each person who uses our services to achieve their potential. We are committed to providing each employee with a fulfilling working environment, encouraging personal and professional development. We aim to be a first class, independent organisation delivering innovative, collaborative and value for money services. Our ultimate purpose is to work with the people who use our services and their families and friends, to enable them to take control of their lives. Company Culture Were always on the look out for people who care, whether thats caring for our residents, or in one of our roles like laundry, kitchen, administration or maintenance. Our passionate, ever-growing team means that youll be working with people who pride themselves on the work they do. Each of our Homes and our Head Office work together to achieve something excellent that truly makes a difference in peoples lives. Caring for our residents is at the heart of all we do, and wed love to have you join the team. Company Benefits Healthcare Ireland Group is not just a workplace; it\’s a community where your work has a purpose, and your contributions are valued. If you\’re passionate about making a difference and are seeking a rewarding career in healthcare, we welcome you to explore opportunities with us and help continue our legacy of excellence in care . Retirement plan and/or pension, Employee development programs, Free parking, Competitive salary, Social Opportunities, Employee Recognition Scheme, Culture of recognition, On the job learning Salary £12.80 per hour Benefits: Retirement plan and/or pension Employee development programs Free parking Competitive salary Social Opportunities Employee Recognition Scheme
Cook employer: Healthcare Ireland Group
Contact Detail:
Healthcare Ireland Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific dietary needs of elderly residents, especially those with complex needs. Understanding these requirements will not only help you in the interview but also show your commitment to providing high-quality care.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any experience you have in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Being able to demonstrate your ability to work efficiently under pressure will be crucial for this role, so think of examples that showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Holmes Court and their approach to person-centred care. Showing that you understand their values and mission during your conversation can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you would contribute to a positive team environment. Since the role involves supporting the kitchen team, demonstrating your teamwork skills and willingness to motivate others will be beneficial.
We think you need these skills to ace Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience as a Cook, particularly in food preparation and kitchen management. Emphasise any experience you have in a care home or healthcare environment, even if it's not essential.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for food and your understanding of the dietary needs of elderly residents. Mention how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Include any certifications you hold, such as a basic Food Safety certificate. If you have knowledge of HACCP, COSHH, or Health and Safety, make sure to mention this as it is crucial for the role.
Showcase Interpersonal Skills: Since excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required, provide examples in your application of how you've effectively worked in a team or supported others in a kitchen environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Healthcare Ireland Group
✨Show Your Passion for Food
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for cooking and how it relates to the well-being of residents. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your love for food and its impact on health.
✨Understand Dietary Needs
Familiarise yourself with the dietary requirements of elderly individuals, including nutritional and cultural considerations. Be prepared to discuss how you would accommodate these needs in your meal planning.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working closely with a Chef and other kitchen staff, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've supported team members in previous roles.
✨Knowledge of Health and Safety Standards
Be ready to discuss your understanding of HACCP, COSHH, and general health and safety regulations. This shows that you take food safety seriously and are committed to maintaining high standards in the kitchen.
