Hostel Cook (Relief / Bank)

Hostel Cook (Relief / Bank) - Job Description

Post Title: Relief / Bank Cook

Rate of pay: £12.00 per hour

Hours: Ad hoc to cover staff holidays, sickness and gaps in the rota

Contract: Casual

Location: Loughborough LE11 1BE

How to apply: Please send a CV and cover letter to

Please note: Your cover letter should demonstrate your expertise and how you meet the role requirements. This should be a minimum of 500 words and not exceed 2 pages.

About us

Falcon Support Services provides supported accommodation and community projects to those who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or vulnerable in the community. Our service helps vulnerable people by providing safe and secure accommodation. Our staff work alongside clients to help them develop skills to move away from homelessness to live independently and positively contribute to their community.

Purpose of the job

To assist in the preparation of a daily evening meal for up to 30 residents.

• Assist in planning and organising the menu with other kitchen staff within an agreed budget, taking into consideration any dietary requirements of residents.
• Ensure the provision of a well-balanced, wholesome and nutritional diet.
• Ensure kitchen cleanliness and hygiene meet Environmental Health requirements and report health and safety concerns to the management team.

Main Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation and cooking of food to standards that satisfy current food hygiene and safety legislation.
• Help plan a varied menu reflecting residents' preferences, including dietary or cultural/religious requirements, medical or other specific needs.
• Produce nutritious, well-balanced meals to maintain residents' health.
• Present staff in clean, laundered uniforms.
• Maintain respectful contact with residents and report any concerns to support staff or management.
• Be prepared to order food supplies and ensure best value for money.
• Carry out stock rotation and regular audits to ensure stock is used before expiry or disposed of appropriately.
• Store all food stock according to guidelines and maintain accurate temperature records daily.
• Ensure fridges and freezers are defrosted, maintained, and items are labelled and stored correctly.
• Ensure catering equipment and utensils are cleaned and stored safely.
• Ensure the kitchen area, including hob, oven, microwave, sinks, bowls and work surfaces are cleaned to a high standard and meet EH specifications daily.
• Keep storage cupboards sorted and clean.
• Wear appropriate, clean clothing including a tabard or apron when working in the kitchen.

General

• Attend training and/or meetings as required by the role.
• Promote a positive image of Falcon Support Services as part of an integrated team.
• Support Group Equality, Diversity and Health and Safety policies and confidentiality and data protection at all times.
• Due to the nature of work, this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and will require disclosure of all criminal convictions and DBS check where applicable.
• Commit to equal opportunities and non-discriminatory practices in all aspects of work.

Health & Safety / Compliance

• All employees must comply with the charity's financial regulations and health and safety requirements.
• All employees must take reasonable care of their health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their acts or omissions, in line with the Health and Safety at Work Act.
• This job description is not exhaustive and may be amended to reflect service requirements; changes will be discussed with the post holder.

Knowledge, Experience & Skills

• Experience working independently to deliver a high-quality service.
• The ability to work proactively with limited supervision.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.

Mandatory Requirements

• Must be over the age of 18.
• Willingness to undergo an enhanced DBS check.
• Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate or higher.