Kitchen Assistant (Relief) based at Willowcroft, Derby

MHA; East Midlands; Hybrid; GBP 23,000 - 29,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days holiday incl bank holidays

Pension scheme

Life assurance

Free DBS checks

Uniforms

Counselling and chaplaincy support

Flexible annual leave options

Blue Light Card discounts

Induction and development

Long service awards

Job summary

MHA is seeking a reliable Kitchen Assistant (Relief) based at Willowcroft, Derby. This role supports the Cook to prepare nutritious meals and maintain a clean, safe kitchen environment for residents with dietary needs.

You will work in line with food safety standards and MHA's values of care, respect and dignity, contributing to residents’ health and wellbeing. A basic food hygiene certificate is essential, with on‑the‑job training provided.

Qualifications

• Basic food hygiene certificate is essential.
• Previous experience in basic food prep is desirable.
• Good communication and listening skills are required.
• Ability to follow instructions and prioritise tasks.

Responsibilities

• Support 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 food safely and hygienically.
• Ensure adequate supplies of cleaning materials are available.
• Assist with laundry tasks for kitchen linen.
• Follow COSHH, food hygiene, health and safety rules at all times.
• Respect residents’ privacy, dignity and choice.
• Attend training, supervision and staff meetings as required.

Skills

Basic food hygiene

Communication skills

Follow instructions

Teamwork

Education

QCF Level 2/3 in Health & Social Care

Job description

Kitchen Assistant (Relief) based at Willowcroft, Derby

Location: Willowcroft, Derby
Hours: Permanent - Various hours available - Relief
Salary: £13.45 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

Willowcroft care home in Derby

Willowcroft is a friendly and welcoming home where colleagues support older people and those living with dementia in a calm and respectful environment. The team atmosphere is inclusive and supportive, helping new colleagues feel quickly at home.

Colleagues work together to promote dignity, independence and meaningful connection for residents. Guided by MHA’s charitable ethos, the home encourages teamwork, kindness and opportunities for learning and development.

For job seekers wanting meaningful work in a values led and people focused home, Willowcroft offers a fulfilling place to grow and make a positive 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.