Cook based at Davids House, Harrow

MHA; Harrow; Hybrid; GBP 21,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days holiday

Pension scheme

Free DBS checks

Uniforms provided

Induction and ongoing training

Job summary

MHA Davids House in Harrow is seeking an enthusiastic Cook to manage day-to-day kitchen operations, prepare nutritious meals, and supervise volunteers. You will plan menus that accommodate diverse dietary needs and ensure cost-effective food ordering and waste minimisation.

The role requires a reliable, creature of habit with strong communication skills, a passion for food, and flexibility to support the team in a values-led care home environment.

Qualifications

• Experience of preparing and cooking meals for large numbers of people.
• Ability to deliver high-quality meals within a budget.
• Good communication and listening skills with a customer-focused approach.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook and serve meals for members attending lunch, breakfast or afternoon tea clubs.
• Plan menus that are nutritious, appealing and meet dietary and cultural needs.
• Manage food ordering and stock control, ensuring cost-effectiveness and minimising waste.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, food hygiene and safety in line with COSHH requirements.
• Supervise and support volunteers and staff in the kitchen, including rotas.

Skills

Cooking for large numbers

Budget management

Customer-focused service

Volunteer supervision

Menu planning creativity

Job description

For this role, we are currently considering candidates who live within approximately 15 miles of the service. This ensures commutes are manageable and support your wellbeing and work-life balance. If you live outside this area but would still find the commute manageable, please get in touch - we are happy to review individual circumstances.

About the role

We are looking for an enthusiastic and organised Cook to join our team at MHA. This is a rewarding role where you will provide nutritious, high-quality meals for members attending our activities, helping to promote health, wellbeing and enjoyment.

As a Cook, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, ensuring meals are prepared safely, efficiently and in line with individual preferences and dietary needs. You will also support and supervise volunteers, helping to create a positive and welcoming environment based on MHA’s values.

What you will do

• Prepare, cook and serve meals for members attending lunch, breakfast or afternoon tea clubs.
• Plan menus that are nutritious, appealing and meet a wide range of dietary and cultural needs.
• Manage food ordering and stock control, ensuring cost-effectiveness and minimising waste.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, food hygiene and safety in line with food safety and COSHH requirements.
• Supervise and support volunteers and staff working in the kitchen, including organising rotas.
• Assist with the induction and training of volunteers and staff, ensuring compliance with food hygiene standards.
• Maintain accurate records and complete audits in line with food safety policies.
• Attend training, meetings, supervisions and appraisals as required.

About you

We are looking for someone who is confident, reliable and passionate about food and service.

You will bring:

• Experience of preparing and cooking meals for large numbers of people.
• The ability to deliver high-quality meals within a set budget.
• Good communication and listening skills, with a customer-focused approach.
• Experience of working with or supervising volunteers (desirable).
• Creativity in menu planning and sensitivity to the needs of older people.
• A flexible and positive approach to work, with occasional travel as required.

You will be joining an organisation with strong values and a commitment to helping people live later life well. At MHA, food plays an important role in bringing people together, and your work will have a meaningful impact every day.

Rewards and benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, you will enjoy:

• 28 days holiday (including bank holidays) and an option to buy annual leave (pro-rota for part time)
• A strong pension scheme and life assurance
• Free DBS checks and uniforms (where applicable)
• Confidential counselling, chaplaincy support and access to our hardship fund
• Flexible options to buy or sell annual leave, plus family-friendly policies
• Discounts through the Blue Light Card, Health Service Discounts and the Vivup app
• A full induction, ongoing training and development opportunities
• Long service awards to celebrate your contribution

About the service

Davids House care home in Harrow

Davids House is a warm and values-led home where colleagues work together with compassion, integrity and a shared sense of purpose. The team is known for being friendly and supportive, helping new colleagues settle in quickly and feel part of the community.

With a strong emphasis on dignity, independence and wellbeing, colleagues play a key role in creating a safe, calm and welcoming atmosphere for residents. Rooted in MHA’s charitable ethos, the home encourages colleagues to learn, grow and bring ideas that contribute to meaningful care.

For job seekers wanting a role that feels purposeful and people-focused, Davids House provides a positive environment to build skills and make a lasting difference.

For more information about the home, please click here

Please note that interviews may take place prior to the closing date and if a suitable candidate is appointed the role may close early.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

MHA are fully committed to the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) as this is embedded in our values: respect, nurture and inspire. In addition, as a committed employer we have been awarded level 2 under the Disability Confident Scheme.

Please note that interviews may take place prior to the closing date and if a suitable candidate is appointed the role may close early.