Cook – Care Home (Brentwood, Essex)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and creative Cook to join our Winifred Dell Care Home in Brentwood. You will prepare nutritious meals, support individual dietary needs, and contribute to a warm, supportive environment for residents.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare and cook fresh, nutritious meals for residents.
• Plan weekly menus, taking into account individual dietary requirements.
• Coordinate stock ordering with the Home Manager while respecting budget limits.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to align meals with support plans and risk assessments.
• Maintain kitchen quality‑assurance systems and uphold food hygiene, COSHH, health & safety, and cross‑infection standards.
• Supervise and mentor other kitchen team members.
• Engage in meaningful activities with residents, promoting independence, choice, dignity and respect.

Required profile

• Experience cooking for large numbers of people.
• NVQ Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality.
• Minimum 2 years in a catering environment.
• At least 12 months managing a kitchen.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.

Required skills

• Menu planning
• Food hygiene compliance
• Health & safety compliance
• Kitchen supervision
• Stock ordering

What we offer

• £14.90‑£17.30 per hour (visible salary).
• 28 days holiday including bank holidays.
• Free on‑site parking.
• Enhanced pay for bank holidays.
• £500 referral bonus per successful hire.
• DBS certificate paid by employer.
• Comprehensive induction and funded qualifications.
• Paid uniform and employee‑of‑the‑month reward.
• Team appreciation week and Blue Light Card discounts.