Peripatetic Cook in Ballynahinch

About Us

For over twenty years, we have taken great pride in providing exceptional care to our residents. Each person in our homes is valued as an individual and we are committed to fostering a warm, supportive and inclusive community where everyone feels cherished and respected.

A career in care goes beyond the care team itself; it takes a dedicated support network to ensure our homes run smoothly and remain a safe, welcoming environment. We believe that compassion, understanding and positivity are not only the key traits we look for in our team but also the values we live by in supporting our employees.

We are proud of our outstanding team and passionate about developing our people. As an Opening Doors employer with Business in the Community Northern Ireland, we are committed to making our workplaces more inclusive and connecting untapped talent through underrepresented groups. We encourage continuous learning through training, external development opportunities and financial support for further education.

The Role

This role is for 40 hours per week on a rota basis across Monday - Sunday. This Peripatetic Cook position is a dynamic role, offering the opportunity to work across multiple Homes within our Group ranging in size from 20 residents to 65 residents. You will be required to travel to different locations for each shift, ensuring residents in all our homes receive nutritious, high-quality meals tailored to their dietary needs. As part of the role, you will prepare meals and snacks in line with residents dietary requirements while maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in all food preparation and storage areas. You will also manage stock efficiently, order supplies and control waste to ensure cost-effectiveness and sustainability. In addition, planning varied and balanced menus that accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences is key, along with providing clear instruction and supervision to any kitchen assistant. You will complete necessary paperwork, including food safety records and compliance documentation as well as ensure adherence to statutory regulations such as COSHH and HACCP.

About You

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who take pride in their culinary skills and are passionate about delivering high-quality care through food. The most important qualities we look for are:

• Compassion, understanding and positivity in supporting residents nutritional needs.
• 6 months previous experience working as a Cook in a Care Home environment.
• A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• Basic Food Hygiene Certificate.
• Understanding of dietary requirements e.g. IDDSI, allergen, diabetes etc.
• A commitment to hygiene, food safety and compliance with statutory regulations.
• Organisational skills for stock management, waste control and menu planning.
• Eligibility to live and work in the UK.
• Medical fitness to carry out physical requirements of the role.
• It is beneficial if you have an NVQ Qualification (or equivalent) in catering.

What We Offer

• A welcoming and inclusive workplace where your contributions are valued.
• A competitive salary of £16 per hour (paid weekly).
• Training and development opportunities to help you grow in your career.
• Supportive leadership and a team that cares about your well-being.
• The opportunity to work flexibly across multiple homes, gaining varied experience.

Additional Information

Interviews may take place via video call. This role involves substantial access to vulnerable adults. The successful candidate will be offered the position subject to a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure Check through Access NI. Regulated posts will also require a check of the adult barred list.

Spa Nursing Group is an equal opportunities employer. We wholeheartedly support Equality and Diversity in employment and oppose all forms of unlawful or unfair discrimination.

Company Culture

At Spa Nursing Home Group, our culture is rooted in compassion, understanding and positivity. We foster a caring environment where every team member is valued for their dedication and empathy. Diversity is embraced, and teamwork is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring our residents receive the highest quality of care in a supportive, inclusive setting.

Company Benefits

At Spa Nursing Home Group, we offer more than just a job—we offer purpose. Our team members enjoy a supportive work environment, opportunities for personal and professional growth and the chance to make a real difference every day. We value compassion, teamwork and diversity and we’re proud to foster a culture where everyone feels respected and appreciated.