As a Kitchen Assistant you will be responsible for supporting the preparation and delivery ofnutritious, well balanced meals and snacks for residents in accordance with current best practice,agreed standards, policy and procedures, legislative requirements and relevant regulations.
You will work as part of the kitchen and care team to ensure residents' dietary needs, preferences and cultural requirements are met with dignity and respect, while maintaining high standards of foodsafety, hygiene and professional practice within the care home.
Food Preparation and Service
- Assist with the preparation and cooking of meals, snacks and beverages for residents
- Follow menus and special dietary requirements, including texture modified diets, allergens,
religious and cultural needs - Ensure food is presented attractively and served at appropriate temperatures
- Support the serving of meals to residents where required
Kitchen Hygiene and Safety
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen, dining areas and storage
spaces - Follow food safety regulations, including temperature control, date checking and safe
storage procedures - Adhere to infection control and COSHH policies relevant to the kitchen environment
- Operate kitchen equipment safely and report faults or concerns promptly
Dietary Records and Communication
- Maintain accurate records of food temperatures, stock rotation and allergen information
- Communicate with care staff regarding residents' dietary needs, preferences and changes in
appetite - Report any concerns about nutrition, hydration, or swallowing risks to the Cook, Senior Carer,
or Manager
Stock and Supplies
- Assist with stock control, including ordering, receiving and storing food and cleaning supplies
- Ensure proper stock rotation and minimise food waste
- Check deliveries for quality, quantity and temperature compliance
Safeguarding and Health & Safety
- Follow safeguarding procedures to protect vulnerable adults
- Ensure the kitchen and food service areas are safe, clean and secure
- Report accidents, incidents and hazards appropriately
- Be aware of emergency procedures, including fire safety and evacuation protocols
Communication and Teamwork
- Communicate respectfully with residents, families, and care staff
- Participate in team meetings and handovers as required
- Support the wider team in promoting residents' wellbeing through nutrition and hydration
Supporting Residents' Wellbeing
- Encourage residents to eat and drink, supporting those who need assistance at mealtimes
- Respect residents' cultural, religious and personal food preferences
- Contribute to a positive, homely dining experience for residents
Shift Support
- Support the smooth running of the kitchen under the direction of the Cook or Catering
Manager - Ensure meal delivery times and standards are met consistently
- Respond to emergencies and unexpected situations appropriately, reporting to senior staff
Working Hours and Pay Rates:
Full time contract, 41 hours per week
- Weekdays - £13 per hour
- Weekends - £13.75 per hour
Essential:
- Good communication skills
- Excellent time management
- Teamwork
- Attention to detail
- Basic food preparation skills
- Reliability and punctuality
- Understanding of food safety and hygiene
- Willingness to learn and develop
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Kitchen Assistant in Tonbridge employer: HealthJobs4U Ltd
At Barchester care homes, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture where creativity and empathy thrive. As an Activities Assistant, you'll not only make a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents but also benefit from comprehensive training, a supportive environment, and a generous rewards package that includes wellbeing tools and retail discounts. Join us in creating fulfilling experiences for our residents while enjoying opportunities for personal and professional growth in a community-focused setting.
