Cook

Assistant Cook Duties and Responsibilities

- To converse with and take personal interest in the residents in order to be fully aware of their personal likes and dislikes. Flexible ‘can do’ attitude - Willing to support and cater for homes functions & festive occasions. - To deputise for the Head Cook. - To be mindful that meal time is one of the highlights of the resident’s day and should be delivered in such a way that respects and promotes this. - Supporting the Head Cook by also being accountable for food standards and meeting health & safety regulations. To also support the Head Cook in ensuring all practices are of a high standard including the cleanliness and hygiene of the kitchen. - To cater for the special diets of individual residents taking into account their allergies, nutritional needs, complex diagnoses and medical history. - To cater for the special diets of individual residents. - To work in line with the Company’s culture and ethos promoting Commitment, Connection and Compassion within daily duties. - Keep up to date with the latest techniques with regards to cooking for residents, together with those which entail de-frosting and re-heating. - To maintain all records relating to the efficient running of the kitchen on a daily basis - Monitor and ensure that stock is available and replenished to the general rules of hygiene and ensure that ingredients are available to provide the appropriate weeks menus. - Ensure that the cooking and preparation area is clean and tidy and conforms to the general rules of hygiene. - Audit the cleanliness of the kitchen and support the kitchen team as needed. - Be aware of the rules of Health & Safety at work in relation to kitchen practice. - Be aware of the location of fire blankets and fire extinguishers in the case of fire, and how to use them. - To assist the Head Cook to compile seasonal menus with residents, senior staff members and families that are varied, and consist of meals that will be suitable for each resident’s needs. - To undertake courses to develop self and keep abreast of legislation. - To budget and order in the absence of the Head Cook, adhering to company budget requirements. - To assist the Head Cook in the delivery of excellence in relation of meal times and dining room experience.

Skills, Characteristics and Experience:

###### Essential

• •Experience and understanding of managing a budget within company expectations.
• •Hold a Food Hygiene Certificate Level 2 or above.
• •Ability to lead and support a team, to be a team player.
• •Ability to effectively communicate with different departments.
• •To uphold confidentiality at all times.
• •Ability to be adaptable to changes of menu at short notice to meet individual residents wants and needs.

###### Desirable

• - To hold a clean full UK driving licence.
• - Previous relevant experience preferably within the care sector.
• - Flexibility to assist and support other care homes if required.