At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and prepare healthy meals for children and staff in a secure care home.
- Company: Join a passionate team at Lincolnshire Secure Unit, dedicated to nurturing young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, mentorship, comprehensive induction, and support for work-life balance.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives through creative cooking and compassionate care.
- Qualifications: Enthusiastic, resilient, innovative, and a good team player.
The predicted salary is between 25989 - 27254 £ per year.
Lincolnshire Secure Unit is a Secure Children's home in Sleaford, Lincolnshire. We are looking for a creative, innovative and resourceful Residential Care Home Cook to join our highly passionate and dedicated care team who provide a safe, nurturing and caring environment for children and young people. We look after children and young people between the ages of 11 and 18 who are placed with us through the Youth Custody Service or for Welfare reasons.
About the Role
We have one full time position available (37 hours a week), working mornings, evenings and weekends. There will be occasions when additional hours would be offered, to support with covering service needs.
You will:
- Have responsibility for planning and preparing weekly menus for both staff and young people
- Prepare and understand healthy, varied, freshly made meals for a range of dietary requirements; Vegetarian, Halal, gluten free and coeliac, as well as other specific dietary requirements
- Keep accurate records and follow food hygiene standards
- Maintain and undertake the daily and weekly cleaning tasks within the kitchen area
- Complete all mandatory LCC training
You will be joining a team in a role that provides variety and challenge, where no two days are the same. This role offers opportunities for personal learning and growth to enable you to achieve the expected professional standards of a Residential Care Home Cook.
About You
As a Residential Care Home Cook you will be an integral part of the team. You will need to be prepared to develop positive relationships with all our children and young people, gain an understanding of their individual needs, ensuring you have compassion and empathy at all times. All Cooks must work within our core values: kindness, nurture, care, respect, empathy and compassion. We will provide you with the necessary training that you will need to fulfil your role and support you through a full induction program.
To apply you will need to be:
- Enthusiastic
- Resilient
- Innovative
- Flexible
- A good team player
About Our Offer
Mentorship and Support: You will be mentored by our experienced and supportive team, ensuring you have the guidance and support you need to excel.
Comprehensive Induction: We will provide a full induction to help ensure you get the best start to your new role.
Competitive Salary: £25,989 - £27,254 (Pay award pending)
At Lincolnshire County Council, we believe our people are at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we offer a rewarding package designed to support your work–life balance, health and wellbeing, financial security, and career growth.
For a confidential and informal discussion about the role please contact James Guthrie on 01529 414300 or alternatively you can email james.guthrie@lincolnshire.gov.uk.
Applications close 31 August 2026.
PLEASE NOTE: It is imperative that your personal statement clearly states why you have applied, how you meet the essential and desirable criteria for the role as set out in the Job Description and what you feel you can bring to this role, the team and the wider County Council.
Please be advised that this position may be subject to a criminal record check. On occasion we receive significantly more applications than expected for some vacancies and under such circumstances we reserve the right to bring forward the closing date of the advertisement. We therefore strongly advise you to apply for the role promptly to avoid disappointment should the closing date be brought forward.
Lincolnshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Fluency Duty: In accordance with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 (Fluency Duty), the ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.
Our values – collaborative, adaptable, eco-conscious, supportive, and responsible – guide everything we do. We’re looking for candidates who share these values and bring them to life in their work, helping us build strong teams and make a real difference in the communities we serve.
Cook employer: Lincoln Company
Sutterton Fourfields CofE Primary School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its staff, offering a supportive work culture where collaboration and innovation thrive. Located in a vibrant community, the school provides unique opportunities for professional development and encourages a meaningful impact on students' lives, making it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Lincoln Company. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Lincoln Company
Don't be shy about reaching out to Lincoln Company directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Cook
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Lincoln Company and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lincoln Company
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
