Kitchen Assistant (Relief) based at Oak Manor, Shefford

MHA; Shefford; Remote; GBP 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days holiday incl. bank holidays

Pension scheme

DBS checks provided

Counselling support

Flexible annual leave options

Blue Light Card discounts

Induction and ongoing training

Long service awards

Job summary

MHA Oak Manor in Shefford is seeking a reliable Kitchen Assistant (Relief) to support the catering team in preparing, serving and cleaning up meals for residents, while following food safety standards and the home’s values of care and respect. You will work with the Cook and colleagues to deliver nourishing meals and maintain a clean, welcoming kitchen.

Basic food hygiene knowledge and good communication are desirable.

Qualifications

• Basic food hygiene certificate (essential).
• Experience with basic food preparation is desirable.
• Good communication and listening skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and priorities tasks.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Cook with food preparation, serving meals, washing up and storing crockery and utensils safely.
• Keep kitchen areas clean and tidy in line with schedules and Food Safety Manual.
• Dispose of waste safely and hygienically.
• Ensure adequate supplies of cleaning materials.
• Assist with laundry tasks for kitchen linen.
• Follow COSHH, food hygiene, health & safety and infection prevention requirements.
• Respect residents’ privacy, dignity and choice.

Skills

Basic food hygiene

Food service

Teamwork

Communication

Education

QCF Level 2/3 in Health & Social Care

Job description

Kitchen Assistant (Relief) based at Oak Manor, Shefford

Location: Oak Manor, Shefford
Hours: 0 hours per week (Relief)
Salary: £13.46 per hour

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 a reliable and enthusiastic Kitchen Assistant to join our catering team at MHA. This is a valued role, supporting the Cook to deliver nutritious, well-presented meals that meet residents’ dietary needs while helping to maintain a clean, safe and welcoming kitchen environment.

As a Kitchen Assistant, you will play an important part in supporting residents’ health and wellbeing, working in line with food safety standards and MHA’s values of care, respect and dignity.

What you will do

• Support the Cook with food preparation, serving meals, washing up and storing crockery and utensils safely.
• Keep all areas of the kitchen clean and tidy in line with cleaning schedules and the Food Safety Manual.
• Dispose of waste food safely and hygienically.
• Ensure adequate supplies of cleaning and washing-up materials are available.
• Assist with laundry tasks for kitchen linen.
• Follow COSHH, food hygiene, health & safety and infection prevention requirements at all times.
• Respect residents’ privacy, dignity and choice.
• Attend training, supervision, appraisals and staff meetings as required.

About you

We are looking for someone who is dependable, caring and enjoys working as part of a team.

You will bring:

• A basic food hygiene certificate (essential).
• Previous experience of basic food preparation (desirable).
• Good communication and listening skills.
• The ability to follow instructions and prioritise tasks effectively.
• A positive, flexible approach to work.
• Sensitivity to the needs of older people and a commitment to quality service.
• Willingness to undertake training and development.
• A QCF Level 2 or 3 in Health & Social Care is desirable but not essential, as training will be provided.

You will be joining an organisation with strong values and a supportive culture, where every role contributes to helping people live later life well. At MHA, catering teams play a vital part in residents’ daily enjoyment and wellbeing.

Rewards and benefits

In addition to a competitive hourly rate, 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
• 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

Oak Manor care home in Shefford

Oak Manor is an inviting home where colleagues work collaboratively to deliver high-quality, person-centred care. With its modern design and peaceful surroundings, the home offers a positive backdrop for colleagues who want to make a meaningful impact.

The team culture is supportive and friendly, helping new colleagues settle quickly and feel valued. Guided by MHA’s charitable ethos, colleagues work together with empathy, respect and a shared commitment to helping residents live well.

For job seekers looking to join a team that encourages growth and celebrates contribution, Oak Manor provides a rewarding and purpose-led place to work.

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.