Job Description
Location: South Cerney, Cirencester (GL7)
Key Responsibilities:
* Meal Planning and Preparation:
o Prepare and cook daily meals for residents, ensuring they are nutritious, well-balanced, and meet dietary requirements.
o Plan menus in advance, incorporating seasonal ingredients and catering to any special dietary needs (e.g., diabetic, gluten-free, low-sodium).
o Adjust menus as required to accommodate individual preferences or health needs of residents.
* Dietary and Health Considerations:
o Prepare meals in accordance with care plans for residents with specific dietary restrictions, allergies, or medical conditions.
o Ensure portion control and appropriate nutritional content in every meal.
* Food Safety and Hygiene:
o Follow strict food hygiene standards, including maintaining a clean and sanitized kitchen at all times.
o Adhere to food safety regulations, including correct storage, preparation, and serving of food.
o Ensure proper waste disposal and food storage according to health and safety guidelines.
* Communication and Coordination:
o Liaise with care staff to understand the dietary needs and preferences of the residents.
o Coordinate with other kitchen staff to ensure smooth meal service and timely food preparation.
o Communicate effectively with residents, showing sensitivity to their individual needs and preferences.
* Kitchen Management:
o Maintain kitchen equipment and ensure it is in good working order.
o Manage food supplies, placing orders and ensuring stock rotation to minimize waste.
o Maintain accurate records of food stock, orders, and meals served.
* Adapting to Special Occasions:
o Prepare special meals or snacks for birthdays, holidays, or other events within the care home.
o Ensure the kitchen is ready to handle last-minute dietary adjustments or meal requests.
* Compliance with Policies:
o Follow the care home's policies and procedures related to food preparation, health and safety, and hygiene.
o Comply with relevant regulations such as the Food Safety Act and other government guidelines on food safety in care settings.
Skills and Competencies:
* Culinary Skills: Proficiency in preparing a variety of meals, including those tailored to special dietary needs.
* Knowledge of Nutrition: Understanding of basic nutrition, especially for elderly or vulnerable populations with specific health needs.
* Attention to Detail: Ability to follow dietary guidelines and prepare meals in accordance with care plans.
* Communication Skills: Effective communication with staff, residents, and healthcare professionals regarding dietary needs.
* Time Management: Ability to manage time effectively in a busy kitchen to ensure meals are prepared and served on schedule.
* Adaptability: Flexibility to handle last-minute changes or dietary adjustments.
Qualifications and Experience:
* Food Hygiene Certificate: Level 2 (or higher) Food Safety and Hygiene qualification is mandatory.
* Culinary Training: Relevant qualifications in catering or professional cooking are advantageous.
* Experience: Previous experience working as a cook in a care home or healthcare setting is preferred.
* DBS Check: A current Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is necessary for working in a care home.
Working Conditions:
* Environment: Work within the care home's kitchen, often preparing multiple meals at different times of the day (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
* Shifts: May involve working weekends, evenings, or public holidays depending on the care home's needs.
* Supervision: May work independently or as part of a small kitchen team, often reporting to a head chef, catering manager, or care home manager.
JBRP1_UKTJ
#J-18808-Ljbffr