At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve nutritious meals for our community, ensuring dietary needs are met.
- Company: Join MHA at Epworth Grange, a caring and collaborative environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days holiday, strong pension scheme, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with a supportive team culture focused on wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact every day by bringing people together through food.
- Qualifications: Experience in cooking for large groups and a passion for food service.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 23100 £ per year.
Shift pattern: 2 x 10-hour shifts per week, worked over 7 days per week to include weekends and bank holidays, on a 2-week rolling rota.
For this role, we are currently considering candidates who live within approximately 15 miles of the service. This ensures commutes are manageable and support your wellbeing and work-life balance. If you live outside this area but would still find the commute manageable, please get in touch - we are happy to review individual circumstances.
About the role
We are looking for an enthusiastic and organised Cook to join our team at MHA. This is a rewarding role where you will provide nutritious, high-quality meals for members attending our activities, helping to promote health, wellbeing and enjoyment. As a Cook, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, ensuring meals are prepared safely, efficiently and in line with individual preferences and dietary needs. You will also support and supervise volunteers, helping to create a positive and welcoming environment based on MHA’s values.
What you will do:
- Prepare, cook and serve meals for members attending lunch, breakfast or afternoon tea clubs.
- Plan menus that are nutritious, appealing and meet a wide range of dietary and cultural needs.
- Manage food ordering and stock control, ensuring cost-effectiveness and minimising waste.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness, food hygiene and safety in line with food safety and COSHH requirements.
- Supervise and support volunteers and staff working in the kitchen, including organising rotas.
- Assist with the induction and training of volunteers and staff, ensuring compliance with food hygiene standards.
- Maintain accurate records and complete audits in line with food safety policies.
- Attend training, meetings, supervisions and appraisals as required.
About you
We are looking for someone who is confident, reliable and passionate about food and service. You will bring:
- Experience of preparing and cooking meals for large numbers of people.
- Knowledge of ISSDI.
- The ability to deliver high-quality meals within a set budget.
- Good communication and listening skills, with a customer-focused approach.
- Experience of working with or supervising volunteers (desirable).
- Creativity in menu planning and sensitivity to the needs of older people.
- A flexible and positive approach to work, with occasional travel as required.
- Able to be flexible and work as part of a team.
You will be joining an organisation with strong values and a commitment to helping people live later life well. At MHA, food plays an important role in bringing people together, and your work will have a meaningful impact every day.
Rewards and benefits
In addition to a competitive salary, you will enjoy:
- 28 days holiday (including bank holidays) and an option to buy annual leave (pro-rota for part time).
- A strong pension scheme and life assurance.
- Free DBS checks and uniforms (where applicable).
- Confidential counselling, chaplaincy support and access to our hardship fund.
- Flexible options to buy or sell annual leave, plus family-friendly policies.
- Discounts through the Blue Light Card, Health Service Discounts and the Vivup app.
- A full induction, ongoing training and development opportunities.
- Long service awards to celebrate your contribution.
About the service
Epworth Grange care home in Bury offers colleagues a caring and collaborative environment where everyone works together with a shared sense of purpose. Known for its warm welcome and inclusive culture, the home ensures new colleagues feel part of the team straight away. Colleagues are encouraged to bring compassion, creativity and positivity to their roles, helping residents live with dignity and independence. Guided by MHA’s strong charitable ethos, the team works with respect, empathy and a focus on delivering high-quality care. For job seekers looking to grow in a values-led organisation, Epworth Grange provides a rewarding place to develop skills and make a meaningful difference every day.
Where the role requires a Standard or Enhanced DBS check, the successful candidate will be required to join and maintain membership of the DBS Update Service. MHA will pay for the DBS check and will provide an additional payment through payroll equivalent to the standard annual Update Service subscription fee. Further details will be provided during onboarding.
Please note that interviews may take place prior to the closing date and if a suitable candidate is appointed the role may close early.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
MHA are fully committed to the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) as this is embedded in our values: respect, nurture and inspire. In addition, as a committed employer we have been awarded level 2 under the Disability Confident Scheme.
Cook based at Epworth Grange, Bury employer: Methodist Homes MHA
Methodist Homes MHA is an exceptional employer that values its employees by offering a supportive work culture and flexible hybrid working arrangements. With a strong focus on professional development, team collaboration, and meaningful contributions to the community, employees can expect ample opportunities for growth while making a positive impact in the Northern regions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook based at Epworth Grange, Bury
✨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 Methodist Homes MHA. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Methodist Homes MHA
Don't be shy about reaching out to Methodist Homes MHA 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 based at Epworth Grange, Bury
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 Methodist Homes MHA 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 Methodist Homes MHA
✨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!
