At a Glance
- Tasks: Serve food and drinks while providing top-notch customer service at the House of Lords.
- Company: Join the dynamic Catering and Retail Services team at the iconic House of Lords.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous pension scheme and health programme, plus witness history in the making!
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace culture with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a unique experience working onsite at Parliament with flexible hours.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a good understanding of bar operations are essential.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 £ per hour.
We are looking for a Bar Assistant - Variable Hours to join our Catering and Retail Services team at the House of Lords. This is a position where you will ensure that a high standard of customer service and presentation is always offered through the provision of food and beverages for Peers, their guests, and Staff of the House. You will maximise sales and profitability and achieve targets through your prompt and efficient service. This role will usually be based in the Woolsack bar, however there is a requirement to cover other service areas of the Catering and Retail Services Department when the needs of the House demand, including the River Restaurant and Bar and require a range of service skills. Variable hours staff are booked one week ahead according to business needs and their availability. This position is predominantly evening based and an opportunity to work onsite at Parliament!
You'll be accountable for:
- Work effectively, ensuring that the highest standards of customer service are maintained at all times.
- Dispense a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, in a timely and efficient manner.
- Ensure that high standards of housekeeping, cleanliness of premises and equipment are maintained at all times.
- A proactive approach to maximising additional sales opportunities for increasing revenue and profitability.
- Ensure good rotation of stock at all times and that sale points are stocked for service.
- Be responsible for accurate cash and card payment handling and for the float at the end of the shift.
What we're looking for:
- A strong and confident communicator.
- Knowledgeable - a good understanding of Bar operations.
- A good standard of customer service.
It would be even better if you had or are willing to learn:
- Experience of cash handling and using an EPOS system.
What you'll get in return:
- Generous pension scheme.
- Parliamentary health and wellbeing programme.
- The opportunity to witness history in the making!
The work we do is vital to the House of Lords, and you will be a pivotal member in the team strengthening the work of the House.
The House of Lords is the second chamber of the UK parliament. It is independent from and complements the work of the House of Commons to:
- Make laws.
- Check and challenge the actions of the government through questions and debates.
- Investigate public policy and provide a forum of independent expertise.
Please complete your online application by 23:59 on Wednesday 27th May 2026. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the application process, please contact HL Recruitment. The House of Lords Administration is committed to increasing diversity and maintaining an inclusive workplace culture. We welcome applications from all candidates with diverse characteristics, including different ages, caring responsibilities, disability, sex, gender reassignment/trans, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race/ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation and socio-economic status. We welcome discussions about flexible working arrangements and reasonable adjustments.
Bar Assistant - Variable Hours - Westminster, SW1A 0PW in London employer: House of Lords
Joining the Catering and Retail Services team at the House of Lords as a Bar Assistant offers a unique opportunity to work in a historic and prestigious environment while delivering exceptional customer service. With a generous pension scheme, a focus on health and wellbeing, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, this role not only allows you to develop your skills in bar operations but also to be part of a team that plays a vital role in the functioning of Parliament. Experience the excitement of working onsite at one of the UK's most iconic institutions, where every shift contributes to the rich tapestry of British democracy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bar Assistant - Variable Hours - Westminster, SW1A 0PW in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! If you're eyeing that Bar Assistant role, pop by the House of Lords and soak in the atmosphere. Familiarising yourself with the place can give you a leg up during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your bar skills! Whether it's mixing drinks or handling cash, showing that you're ready to hit the ground running will impress the hiring team. We all love a proactive candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Chat with current staff or connect with them on LinkedIn. They might share insider tips or even put in a good word for you. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who want to be part of our team at the House of Lords.
We think you need these skills to ace Bar Assistant - Variable Hours - Westminster, SW1A 0PW in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Personality:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see who you are beyond just your experience. A bit of humour or a personal touch can make your application stand out.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the Bar Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience in customer service or bar operations. We love seeing how your skills match what we're looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the heart of your experience and skills. Avoid fluff – we want to know what makes you a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at House of Lords
✨Know Your Bar Basics
Brush up on your knowledge of bar operations, including the types of drinks served and how to mix them. Being able to confidently discuss your understanding of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Customer Service is Key
Prepare to demonstrate your customer service skills during the interview. Think of examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer, as this role requires maintaining high standards of service for Peers and their guests.
✨Show Your Flexibility
Since this position involves variable hours and covering different service areas, be ready to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt. Highlight any previous experience in similar roles where you had to be flexible with your schedule.
✨Practice Cash Handling Scenarios
If you have experience with cash handling or EPOS systems, be prepared to talk about it. If not, consider familiarising yourself with basic cash handling procedures, as accuracy in payment processing is crucial for this role.
