Chef

Location: Hayes Cottage, Hayes, UB3 2RR

Hours: 22.25 hours per week, part-time

Salary: £17.00 per hour

Contract: Permanent

About Us

Serencroft Care Homes is an independent care provider operating five residential and nursing homes across England, including Hayes Cottage in Hayes. We are CQC-regulated and B Corp certified, and we work in partnership with NHS commissioners and local universities to provide high-quality, person-centred care. Hayes Cottage is renowned for providing high-quality, person-centred care in a warm and supportive environment, specialising in mental health related care, including for adults with dementia and learning disabilities. We're looking for a passionate and dedicated Chef to join our friendly team, creating nutritious, delicious meals that make a positive impact on the lives of our residents.

Role Overview

At Hayes Cottage, food is more than just a meal — it's an important part of our residents' wellbeing, comfort and quality of life. As our Chef, you'll prepare, cook and serve nutritious, appetising meals to the highest standards of food safety and hygiene, catering to residents' individual dietary, cultural, religious and nutritional requirements, and help ensure the home meets health and safety standards — playing an important role in the comfort and wellbeing of our residents.

Key Responsibilities

•    Prepare, cook and serve nutritious, appetising meals in a hygienic and professional manner

•    Assist in planning and developing varied seasonal menus in collaboration with the Hotel Services Manager

•    Prepare daily menus and ensure sufficient food supplies are available

•    Cater for residents' individual dietary, cultural, religious and nutritional requirements

•    Ensure special diets and texture-modified meals are prepared accurately and safely

•    Supervise, support and direct Catering Assistants as required

•    Assist with food ordering, stock control, stock rotation and record keeping

•    Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the kitchen and catering areas

•    Ensure compliance with Food Safety legislation, Health & Safety regulations and C.O.S.H.H. requirements

•    Support staff training and development within the catering department

•    Assist with staff rotas, ensuring efficient staffing levels within budgetary requirements

•    Report accidents, incidents, hazards and maintenance concerns promptly

•    Promote effective communication and positive working relationships with colleagues across all departments

•    Maintain confidentiality regarding residents and their personal information

•    Contribute to a warm, person-centred environment that promotes residents' dignity, independence, choice, comfort and wellbeing

What We’re Looking For

• Previous experience as a Chef, Cook, or in a similar catering role preferably in a care home, healthcare setting.

• Good knowledge of food hygiene, food safety, and special dietary requirements.

• Strong organisational, communication, and teamwork skills, with the ability to work independently.

• Committed to delivering high-quality meals and excellent dining experiences for residents.

• Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or above).

• Knowledge of nutrition for older people and experience supervising catering staff.

What We Offer

•    A varied, hands-on role within a supportive, values-led care home team

•    Ongoing training and development opportunities within a multi-site care group

•    Full induction

•    Potential to take up NVQ once successfully completing probation period.

•    A supportive value led team environment

•    Refer a Friend bonus – up to £200!

•    Blue Light Card Eligibility

•    Employee of the quarter - opportunity to potentially win tickets to sporting events or purchasing vouchers for amazing brands and so much more!

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

Serencroft Care Homes is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified people regardless of background.

Please Note

•    This job description is not an exhaustive statement of the job. Other duties may need to be undertaken commensurate with this position.

•    This is not a sponsorship role.

Job Summary

  • Location: Hayes Cottage, Hayes, UB3 2RR

  • Role: Chef

  • Salary: £17 per hour

  • Hours: 22.25 hours per week, part-time

  • Posted: 1 September 2026

Questions?

Have questions about this role? Get in touch with our HR team.

Contact Us