At a Glance
- Tasks: Cook delicious, nutritious meals and create varied menus for individuals with special dietary needs.
- Company: Join Scottish Autism, a charity dedicated to supporting individuals with autism.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, life assurance, pension scheme, and employee assistance programmes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while honing your cooking skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for cooking; experience is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours with excellent training and career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 13 £ per hour.
Do not wait to apply after reading this description; a high application volume is expected for this opportunity.
Part time position available - small contract can be discussed and flexibility around this if suitable candidate.
£24,242 pro rata per annum (£12.60 per hour).
Please note that we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for these roles.
Reference: SA1137
We are currently looking for an enthusiastic and committed individual with a keen passion for cooking or baking. Based within our Ridgepark service in Lanark, you will work within a small team to provide nutritious meals for the individuals we support.
In this role, you will be responsible for performing a number of cooking activities, including:
- Planning healthy and varied menus (carefully considering special diets)
- Preparing a full range of meals for supported individuals
- Organising the serving of meals
- Ensuring the kitchen preparation and storage areas are maintained to a clean and hygienic standard
Whilst prior experience is desirable, this is not essential as we have an excellent in-house mentor with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Scottish Autism will supply all relevant training.
We are actively seeking individuals who share the following values with Scottish Autism: Collaboration, Compassion, Change Makers, Contribution.
Scottish Autism offers you a comprehensive benefits catalogue for colleagues which has a range of Wellbeing, Learning & Development and financial perks, including:
- 30 days holiday pro rata (which increases with your length of service)
- Non-contributory life assurance scheme
- Workplace Pension (Employer matched up to 9%)
- Discount platform
- Employee Assistance Programme
This post is subject to a PVG Disclosure check. All new employees must have applied to register with the Scottish Social Services Council within 3 months of starting in post and be registered within 6 months. Scottish Autism cover all the costs of PVG membership and SSSC Registration for employees.
Shift times: 8AM-5:30PM weekday | 9AM-5:30PM weekend.
Closing Date: 13th February 2026.
We encourage and welcome applications from people with lived experience of autism. Valuing diversity and promoting equal opportunities is at the heart of our vision, mission and values.
Registered charity number is SC009068.
Cook - Ridgepark in Lanark employer: Scottish Autism
Contact Detail:
Scottish Autism Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook - Ridgepark in Lanark
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Scottish Autism and their values. This will help you connect with them during the conversation and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Try doing mock interviews with friends or family. This will help you get comfortable talking about your cooking skills and how you can contribute to the team at Ridgepark.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion! When discussing your experience or interest in cooking, share any personal stories or projects that highlight your enthusiasm. It’s all about making a memorable impression!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email. It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Cook - Ridgepark in Lanark
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you start your application, take a moment to check out our website and learn about our values and mission. We’re all about collaboration and compassion, so showing that you resonate with these in your application will definitely make you stand out!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Cook position at Ridgepark. Highlight any relevant cooking experience or skills, even if it’s just from home! We love seeing your passion for cooking and how you can contribute to our team.
Show Your Enthusiasm: In your written application, let your personality shine through! We’re looking for someone enthusiastic and committed, so don’t be shy about sharing your love for cooking and how you can bring joy to the individuals we support.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. With high interest in this role, getting your application in early can give you an edge. Head over to our website and apply today – we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Autism
✨Know Your Ingredients
Before the interview, brush up on your cooking knowledge! Familiarise yourself with various cooking techniques and dietary requirements. This will not only show your passion for cooking but also demonstrate your ability to cater to diverse needs.
✨Menu Planning Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you would plan healthy and varied menus. Think about how you can incorporate special diets into your meal planning. Having a few examples ready will impress the interviewers and show that you’re proactive.
✨Teamwork is Key
Since you'll be working in a small team, highlight your collaboration skills. Share examples of how you've worked well with others in the past, especially in a kitchen environment. This will show that you value teamwork and can contribute positively to the team dynamic.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for cooking shine through! Talk about what inspires you in the kitchen and any personal projects or experiences that fuel your passion. This will help the interviewers see that you’re not just looking for a job, but genuinely care about the role.