Cook

EQ Care Group; Reading; Remote; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Half day off for your birthday

Blue Light Discount Card

28 days annual leave (pro rata)

Salary advance scheme

Contributory pension

Learning & Development

Team member rewards

Free meals on shift

Free tax review service

Refer a friend scheme

Job summary

EQ Care Group's Cedar Lodge Care Home in Whitchurch-on-Thames is seeking a Cook to join our caring team. You will support the Head Chef and prepare nutritious meals for residents, including those with IDDSI dietary needs.

This full-time role is 40 hours per week, with alternate weekends, and involves leading a small kitchen team, maintaining hygiene, and contributing to an exceptional mealtime experience.

Qualifications

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience within a similar environment desirable.
• NVQ Level 2 in Food Production & Cooking (or willing to complete).
• Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Office and internal applications; with the ability to learn new systems quickly.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also being self-motivated and capable of working independently.

Responsibilities

• Liaise with residents to ensure satisfaction with food and beverages.
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness and hygiene standards for EHO readiness.
• Ensure the rota is covered and appropriate staffing levels.
• Attend and contribute to team meetings.
• Perform additional duties as needed to support the home.

Skills

Strong communication

Teamwork

Independent worker

IT literacy

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Food Production & Cooking

Tools

Microsoft Office

Internal applications

Job description

Cedar Lodge Care Home, Whitchurch on Thames

Cook

40 hours per week to include alternate weekends

Cedar Lodge, Eastfield Lane, Whitchurch-on-Thames, Reading, RG8 7EJ

Role Overview

As the Cook at Cedar Lodge, you will be placed at the heart of the home along with the people that live here. You will work alongside the Head Chef and deputise in their absence. You will prepare and provide both nutritionally and satisfying meals for all residents. You will be part of the catering team and work closely with other departments making sure that the highest service standards are met. You will ensure that the mealtime experience is exceptional for every person regardless of their needs, including cultural/religious as well as medical needs such as IDDSI diet. Together with The Head Chef, you will maintain a safe working environment and lead by example.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Liaise with residents to ensure they are happy with the food and beverages being provided within the home – including attending resident dining experience committees
• Ensure the cleanliness of the kitchen and hygiene standards are achieved and maintained and is fit for EHO inspection at all times
• Ensure that the rota is covered and the correct level of team members are on shift
• Attend and actively contribute to team meetings
• Perform any additional duties as assigned by the Head Chef / Home Manager to support the overall functioning of the home.

Skills, Qualifications and Abilities

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience within a similar environment desirable
• NVQ Level 2 in Food Production & Cooking (or equivalent) or a willingness to complete this qualification if not already obtained.
• Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Office and internal applications; with the ability to learn new systems quickly.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also being self-motivated and capable of working independently.

The Care Home and Company

Cedar Lodge opened in July 2025; a 45-bed nursing and dementia specialist care home in the heart of Whitchurch-on-Thames, combines modern comfort with classic charm, offering a welcoming home for people who need care & support. With spacious en-suite bedrooms, spectacular communal areas, and beautiful gardens, Cedar Lodge is a place to live well and thrive. We are looking for people to join our heart-centred team who will provide exceptional, personalised care, ensuring everyone feels valued, supported, and at home at Cedar Lodge.

To find out more information about EQ Care, please visit our website: www.eqcare.org

Benefits of working at EQ Care

• ½ day off for your birthday – start your celebrations early!
• Blue Light Discount Card – access exclusive savings and offers.
• 28 days of annual leave (pro rata) – enjoy a healthy work-life balance.
• Salary advance scheme (Level) – access earned pay when you need it.
• Contributory pension – helping you plan for your future.
• Dedicated Learning & Development – continuous training and career growth opportunities.
• Team member rewards – recognising and celebrating your hard work.
• Free meals on shift – enjoy a meal on us while you work.
• Free tax review service – making sure you keep more of what you earn.
• Refer a friend scheme – earn up to £500 for successful referrals! (Terms apply)

Please note: If you are not a UK resident, you will need to be able to provide a valid right to work. We cannot provide sponsorship.

** This job description may differ as new information technology, policies and contractual agreements change, and we reserve the right to vary duties without notice

Cedar Lodge Care Home, Whitchurch on Thames