At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve meals while ensuring food safety and hygiene standards.
- Company: Dove Tree House is a caring home in Exeter focused on enhancing residents' lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, a supportive team, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Pay ranges from £12.82 to £13.07 per hour; apply now and start making an impact!
- Why this job: Join a compassionate team where your efforts directly improve the lives of residents.
- Qualifications: Experience in a kitchen is a plus, but a positive attitude and willingness to learn are key.
The Lilacs: Our lovely home in Exeter, The Lilacs is looking for a Kitchen Staff member for 28 hours per week.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare, cook, and serve meals and snacks in accordance with planned menus and individual dietary requirements, including modified textures and allergen needs
- Assist with daily food preparation tasks, including washing, peeling, chopping, and cooking vegetables, fruits and other ingredients
- Bake cakes and prepare light refreshments, including beverages and sandwiches for afternoon tea
- Ensure all meals are attractively presented, served on time, and in accordance with food safety and hygiene standards
- Maintain the cleanliness and organisation of all kitchen areas and equipment in line with infection control procedures and health & safety policies
- Clean and sanitise all work surfaces, utensils, and kitchen equipment regularly and after each use
- Monitor and record food temperatures, fridge/freezer temperatures, and cleaning schedules as per regulatory and CQC and EVHO requirements
- Assist with stock rotation, labelling, and safe storage of food items. Check deliveries against invoices and report discrepancies
- Support the set-up and clearing down of dining areas, ensuring a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for residents
- Work closely and collaboratively with care staff to ensure residents’ dietary needs and preferences are fully met
- Communicate respectfully and compassionately with residents, recognising that mealtimes are a key part of their day
- Report any concerns about residents’ food intake, dietary changes, or kitchen operations to the Care Manager or senior team
- Regularly review and adapt menus based on seasonal changes, resident feedback, and audits
- Maintain stock levels by ordering food, beverages, and kitchen supplies in a timely and cost-effective manner
Person Specification - Skills And Qualifications
- Previous experience in a care home, hospital, or similar kitchen environment is desirable but not essential
- Knowledge of food hygiene and health & safety regulations, Level 2 or Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate is beneficial
- Understanding of special diets, including allergies, diabetic meals, and soft food diets, is preferred
- Strong organisational and multitasking skills, with the ability to work under pressure and to deadlines
- Good communication skills with a professional and respectful approach to colleagues and residents
- Compassionate and patient nature, with a genuine interest in improving the lives of older or vulnerable people
- Physical ability to stand for long periods and carry out manual handling and cleaning tasks
- A positive, flexible attitude and willingness to learn and adapt to changing needs
Rate of pay: £13.17 - £13.42 per hour.
Most importantly we are looking for nice, friendly, dedicated people who will set high standards for themselves and be active members of the care team. We look for people who behave in a positive manner at all times, putting the best interests of the residents in their care at the heart of all that they do.
To be eligible to apply for this vacancy, you already need to have the right to work in the UK as the Company is unable to provide sponsorship for this post.
Kitchen Staff Member in Exeter employer: Stonehaven Healthcare Ltd
Stonehaven Healthcare Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Located in the picturesque town of Brixham, the Deputy Care Home Manager role provides opportunities for meaningful engagement with residents and the chance to develop leadership skills in a nurturing environment. With competitive pay and a commitment to enhancing care delivery, this position is ideal for those looking to make a positive impact in the lives of the elderly.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Staff Member in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific dietary needs and preferences of older adults. Understanding how to cater for special diets, such as diabetic or soft food diets, will show that you are genuinely interested in improving the lives of residents.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in a kitchen environment, especially in care homes or hospitals. Even if you don't have direct experience, showcasing your willingness to learn and adapt can make a strong impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your knowledge of food hygiene and health & safety regulations. If you have a Level 2 or Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate, be sure to mention it, as this is beneficial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills and compassionate nature during any interactions. Being able to communicate respectfully with both residents and colleagues is crucial in creating a positive dining experience.
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Staff Member in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience in kitchen environments, especially in care homes or similar settings. Emphasise skills like food hygiene knowledge and your ability to work under pressure.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for working with vulnerable individuals. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your compassion and ability to meet dietary needs.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, clearly outline your organisational skills, multitasking abilities, and any certifications you hold, such as a Food Hygiene Certificate. This will show that you are well-prepared for the role.
Show Enthusiasm:Express your genuine interest in improving the lives of residents through your cooking. Use positive language to convey your dedication to high standards and teamwork in your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stonehaven Healthcare Ltd
✨Show Your Passion for Cooking
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for preparing meals and catering to dietary needs. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your love for cooking and how it can positively impact the residents' lives.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Food Hygiene
Familiarise yourself with food hygiene regulations and be ready to discuss them during the interview. Mention any relevant certifications you have, such as a Level 2 or Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate, to show your commitment to safety and cleanliness.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working closely with care staff, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Provide examples of past experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team to achieve common goals, especially in a kitchen or care environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions about how you would handle specific situations, such as accommodating special dietary requirements or managing time during busy periods. Think through your responses in advance to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
