Peripatetic Chef – Flexible Role Supporting Care Homes

About the role

We are seeking a qualified Peripatetic Chef to provide fresh, high‑quality meals across several Barchester care homes in the South East England region. The role offers a balanced work‑life schedule with alternating weekends, allowing you to showcase your culinary talent while supporting resident wellbeing.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver nutritious, seasonal meals to multiple care home sites.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene and safety across all locations.
• Collaborate with resident care teams to tailor menus to dietary needs.
• Manage kitchen supplies, stock levels and equipment on each site.
• Provide a warm, welcoming dining experience for residents and staff.

Required profile

• Personable approach with genuine interest in resident wellbeing.
• Good understanding of nutrition and seasonal produce.
• NVQs/SVQs or City & Guilds equivalent in culinary arts.
• Current food hygiene certification.
• Strong kitchen management and organisational skills.

Required skills

• Food hygiene compliance
• Kitchen management
• NVQ/SVQ or City & Guilds culinary qualification

What we offer

• Work‑life balance with alternate weekend days.
• Competitive hourly rate of £18.50 plus travel costs.
• Holiday, retail and leisure discounts.
• Opportunity to compete in the annual Barchester Hospitality Awards.
• Refer‑a‑Friend bonus scheme.