Bank Chef – Flexible Part‑Time Shifts in London

About the role

We are seeking a Bank Chef to provide flexible, ad‑hoc kitchen cover at Cygnet Hospital Ealing. The role involves morning shifts (07:30‑15:30) across a 7‑day rota, delivering nutritious meals for patients with eating or personality disorders in a non‑institutional setting.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and serve balanced, appetising meals.
• Provide special‑diet meals, respecting individual preferences and clinical requirements.
• Liaise with nursing staff to meet patients' nutritional needs.
• Maintain cleanliness of the kitchen, service areas and dining room.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety standards and Food Hygiene Regulations.
• Handle, maintain and store kitchen equipment according to Cygnet procedures.
• Use chemicals safely in line with COSHH regulations.

Required profile

• Skilled chef/cook able to work under pressure.
• Preferably experienced in a care or healthcare catering environment.
• Ability to plan nourishing menus within budget constraints.
• Holder of a valid food hygiene certificate and good personal hygiene.
• Polite, professional and positive attitude towards patients and colleagues.
• Excellent communicator, able to work independently, as part of a team and under supervision.
• Qualified in catering (City & Guilds 706 Level 1 & 2 or NVQ Level 2/3).
• Successful candidates will undergo an enhanced DBS check.

Required skills

• Food preparation and cooking.
• Menu planning.
• Special‑diet meal preparation.
• Food hygiene compliance.
• COSHH (hazardous substances) handling.

What we offer

• Pay rate – £13.30 per hour plus 12.1% holiday pay.
• Strong career progression opportunities.
• Expert supervision and support.
• Pension scheme.
• Cycle‑to‑work scheme and employee discount savings.