Care Home Chef: Nutritious, Resident-Focused Dining Lead

Allegra Care; Fordingbridge; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay (£17.90/hr)

Annual salary ~£37,000

Full-time 40-hour week

Supportive working environment

Training and development opportunities

Make a difference to residents' lives

Job summary

Allegra Care, Fordingbridge Care Home in Hampshire, is seeking an experienced Chef to lead the kitchen team and provide nutritious, home-cooked meals for residents. The role focuses on high standards of food quality, hygiene and menu planning to suit dietary needs.

You will manage ordering, stock and budgets, while ensuring HACCP compliance and coordination with the care team. A Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate and flexibility, including alternate weekends, are required.

Qualifications

• Experience as a Chef in a care home kitchen.
• Knowledge of specialist diets, nutrition and allergens.
• Excellent knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards.
• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (or equivalent).
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Genuine passion for cooking for older people.
• Ability to work flexibly, including alternate weekends.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare nutritious, well-balanced menus for residents.
• Lead kitchen team and maintain high standards of quality and organisation.
• Manage food ordering, stock control and kitchen budgets.
• Ensure food safety, HACCP and health & safety compliance.
• Maintain kitchen hygiene and cleanliness.
• Collaborate with care team to meet residents' preferences.

Skills

Chef experience in care home

Dietary and nutrition knowledge

Food hygiene knowledge

Time management

Education

Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate

Job description

Allegra Care, Fordingbridge Care Home in Hampshire, is seeking an experienced Chef to lead the kitchen team and provide nutritious, home-cooked meals for residents. The role focuses on high standards of food quality, hygiene and menu planning to suit dietary needs.

You will manage ordering, stock and budgets, while ensuring HACCP compliance and coordination with the care team. A Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate and flexibility, including alternate weekends, are required.