Kitchen Assistant (Washington | Flexible | £12.75/hr)

St Martins Care; Washington; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

St Martins Care in Washington is seeking a Kitchen Assistant to support a busy care home kitchen, assisting the Head Chef and Assistant Cook with preparing vegetables, cakes, serving meals and pot washing.

The role involves following health and safety requirements, understanding residents' dietary needs and promoting welfare within the service. Training and development opportunities are available in a family-owned, supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Good English (written and verbal).
• Ability to communicate effectively with residents and colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food items under the guidance of the Head Chef.
• Support the delivery and serving of food as required.
• Understand and follow residents' diets and dietary concerns.
• Ensure health and safety requirements are understood and followed.
• Maintain cleaning standards and hygiene in the kitchen.
• Follow all policies and regulations relevant to the role.

Skills

Communication

Problem-solving

Job description

Job Description

Location: Washington Manor Care Home, Hollin Hill Road, Concord

Job Overview

We're recruiting a Kitchen Assistant to support a busy care home.

We are looking for someone to assist the Head Chef and Assistant Cook in a busy kitchen within the organisation, preparing vegetables, cakes, serving meals and pot washing.

The successful candidate may also be required to carry out additional duties as reasonably requested.

Location

The service’s premises, but you may be required to work from other locations at the discretion of the company and with appropriate notice.

Role-specific Duties

The Kitchen Assistant responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Prepare food items under the guidance of the Head Chef.
• Support the delivery and serving of food, if required.
• Understand the specific diets identified as required by residents, and share any dietary concerns with the Head Chef.
• Be responsible for understanding health and safety requirements.
• Implement action to meet and maintain cleaning standards.
• Follow legislative requirements and relative regulations.
• Be responsible for promoting and protecting the welfare of those individuals supported by the service.

Working With Others

• Develop effective working relationships with colleagues within the service.
• Maintain and develop relationships with residents loved ones.

Leading by Example

• Seek opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Act as a role model for others and an ambassador for the service.
• Be professional, polite, and reasonable at all times.

Personal and Professional Development

• Understand the regulatory framework governing the service, including CQC requirements.
• Attend mandatory and other training as directed by management.
• Follow all policies and procedures relevant to the role.
• Embrace learning opportunities.

About The Role

Essential Criteria

Qualifications

• Good English (written and verbal).

Skills

• Communication skills to build rapport with residents, communicate effectively with them, and colleagues.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt to and address situations quickly, develop solutions, and recognise/report situations requiring protection.

Previous Experience

• Previous experience is not required.

Values-based Personal Qualities

• Working Together: Involve residents, families, external agencies, and colleagues; speak up when things go wrong.
• Respect and Dignity: Promote person-centred care and independence.
• Everybody Counts: Ensure no discrimination or exclusion, understand human rights, and enable individuals to voice concerns.
• Commitment to Quality of Care: Strive for quality, embrace constructive feedback, and seek opportunities for learning and improvement.
• Compassion: Show kindness, empathy, and understanding in all interactions.
• Improving Lives: Share ideas, focus on wellbeing, and improve outc

Skills Needed

About The Company

Established over two decades ago, St Martins Care has grown into a reputable provider of comprehensive care services in the North East of England. The company offers a range of services, including residential, dementia, respite, and nursing care, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. With a focus on person-centred care, St Martins Care develops individualised care plans that address the physical, psychological, social, and emotional needs of residents. The organisation's commitment to excellence is reflected in its well-maintained facilities and compassionate, highly trained staff who strive to ensure residents feel safe and 'at home' while in their care.

Company Culture

St Martins Care fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment, emphasising respect, equality, and professional development. As a family-owned organisation, it values each team member's contributions and encourages open communication and teamwork. Employees have noted the company's understanding and supportive senior management, highlighting it as an amazing place to work. The organisation is dedicated to maintaining a healthy work-life balance and offers opportunities for training and career advancement. This positive workplace culture ensures that staff are motivated and equipped to provide the highest standard of care to residents.

Required Criteria

Desired Criteria

• Previous experience of working in a similar environment.
• Experience of working with service users who have additional support needs.
• Previous experience of working as a kitchen assistant.

Closing Date Friday 18th September, 2026

Contract Type fulltime

Salary £12.75 Hourly