Agency Care Home Chef

Staff 2000; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

A culinary staffing agency is seeking an experienced Agency Chef to provide flexible culinary support to nursing homes in the South of England. This zero-hours contract role offers a competitive hourly rate and requires a strong knowledge of dietary needs for older adults. Ideal candidates are reliable, flexible, and possess a valid enhanced DBS check. Enjoy the opportunity to work across various locations, ensuring high-quality meals in a caring environment.

Benefits

Flexible, zero-hours bank contract

Weekly pay

Mileage or travel allowances

Qualifications

• Previous experience working as a chef in a nursing home or similar care environment.
• Strong knowledge of dietary needs for older adults, including modified diets.
• Flexibility to accept shifts on short notice across the listed areas.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook, and serve meals according to dietary requirements.
• Maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen environment.
• Work effectively with kitchen assistants and care home staff.

Skills

Reliable

Flexible

Good communication skills

Ability to adapt quickly

Education

Food Safety Level 2 (minimum)

Enhanced DBS Check (Clear)

Job description

Job Title: Agency Chef (Bank / Zero-Hours Contract)

Locations: Bournemouth, Southampton & Portsmouth (and surrounding areas)

Contract Type: Zero-Hours / Bank

Pay: Competitive hourly rate (DOE)

Start Date: ASAP (subject to checks)

About the Role

We are seeking reliable, flexible, and experienced Agency Chefs to join our bank team, providing high-quality culinary support to nursing homes across Bournemouth, Southampton, Portsmouth, and nearby locations. This role is ideal for chefs who enjoy variety in their work environment and take pride in preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals for elderly residents.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook, and serve meals in accordance with dietary requirements, including textured diets and allergy considerations.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and hygienic kitchen environment, following HACCP and food safety guidelines.
• Work effectively with kitchen assistants and care home staff to ensure smooth meal service.
• Follow menus and adapt recipes when required to meet residents' nutritional needs.
• Manage stock levels, complete basic ordering, and reduce food waste where possible.
• Ensure excellent food presentation and uphold the highest standards of professionalism while representing the agency.

Requirements

• Enhanced DBS Check (Clear) — mandatory
• Previous experience working as a chef in a nursing home or similar care environment
• Strong knowledge of dietary needs for older adults, including modified diets
• Food Safety Level 2 (minimum) — Level 3 preferred
• Ability to work independently and adapt quickly to new environments
• Good communication skills and a respectful, patient manner
• Flexibility to accept shifts on short notice across the listed areas
• Full UK right to work

What We Offer

• Flexible, zero-hours bank contract
• Varied placements across reputable nursing homes
• Weekly pay
• Supportive agency team and consistent shift opportunities
• Mileage or travel allowances (where applicable)