Job description

1 year contract with a Local Authority

Job Summary:

• The Chef/Cook will work at Swanwick Secure Home, preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals for young people aged 11–17, including those with special dietary needs.

• This temporary role supports the Chef Manager in delivering a high-quality catering service while maintaining strict hygiene, safety, and nutritional standards.

• The post involves menu planning, stock control, supervising catering assistants, and collaborating with care staff to ensure meals meet residents’ needs and expectations.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

• Prepare and cook meals in line with nutritional standards and residents’ dietary requirements, including modified meals following IDDSI guidelines.

• Supervise and organise tasks for catering assistants, managing team workflow efficiently.

• Assist the Chef Manager with ordering food and cleaning supplies, monitoring budgets, and checking deliveries for quality compliance.

• Monitor and maintain high standards of food hygiene, health and safety, and cleanliness in all kitchen areas.

• Plan menus in consultation with the Chef Manager and care staff, adapting for special events or individual resident needs.

• Support meal service as required, ensuring presentation and dietary requirements are met.

• Maintain kitchen equipment in safe working order and report any faults promptly.

• Minimise waste and promote recycling practices within the team.

• Show compassion and understanding toward residents, participating in meetings and responding to feedback for service improvement.

• Deputise for the Chef Manager when required, providing support across all catering operations.

Skills/Experience:

• Level 2 in Food and Cooking (or equivalent).

• Level 2 in Food Safety (or willing to complete within 3 months of starting).

• Awareness of allergens and safe food preparation practices.

• Experience supervising kitchen staff or assisting in a catering team.

• Understanding of health and safety and hygiene regulations in a professional kitchen.

• Compassion and understanding when working with vulnerable young people.

Additional Information:

• Enhanced DBS for children and adults.

• Level 2/3 in Diet and Nutrition (Desirable).

• Rates: £14.90/hour standard; £22.35/hour Sundays; £29.80/hour Bank Holidays.

• Located at Swanwick Secure Home, Southampton, Hampshire.