Cook (Relief) based at Homewood, Royal Leamington Spa

About the role

We are looking for an enthusiastic and organised Cook to join our team at MHA. This is a rewarding role where you will provide nutritious, high-quality meals for members attending our activities, helping to promote health, wellbeing and enjoyment.

As a Cook, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, ensuring meals are prepared safely, efficiently and in line with individual preferences and dietary needs. You will also support and supervise volunteers, helping to create a positive and welcoming environment based on MHA’s values.

What you will do

• Prepare, cook and serve meals for members attending lunch, breakfast or afternoon tea clubs.
• Plan menus that are nutritious, appealing and meet a wide range of dietary and cultural needs.
• Manage food ordering and stock control, ensuring cost-effectiveness and minimising waste.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, food hygiene and safety in line with food safety and COSHH requirements.
• Supervise and support volunteers and staff working in the kitchen, including organising rotas.
• Assist with the induction and training of volunteers and staff, ensuring compliance with food hygiene standards.
• Maintain accurate records and complete audits in line with food safety policies.
• Attend training, meetings, supervisions and appraisals as required.

About you

We are looking for someone who is confident, reliable and passionate about food and service.

You will bring:

• Experience of preparing and cooking meals for large numbers of people.
• A Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
• The ability to deliver high-quality meals within a set budget.
• Good communication and listening skills, with a customer-focused approach.
• Experience of working with or supervising volunteers (desirable).
• Creativity in menu planning and sensitivity to the needs of older people.
• A flexible and positive approach to work, with occasional travel as required.

Why join MHA?

You will be joining an organisation with strong values and a commitment to helping people live later life well. At MHA, food plays an important role in bringing people together, and your work will have a meaningful impact every day.

Rewards and benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, 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 (where applicable)
• 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

Homewood care home in Leamington Spa

At Homewood care home, we provide personalised residential care for up to 50 residents in a warm, welcoming environment. Nestled in beautifully landscaped grounds near the heart of Royal Leamington Spa, Homewood offers both comfort and peace of mind with round-the-clock support, helping you enjoy your independence.

Our compassionate, professional team focuses on understanding each resident’s unique needs, developing personalised care plans in collaboration with families. Residents enjoy spacious, bright en suite rooms, a range of engaging activities like tai chi, bowls, and knit-and-natter sessions, as well as regular outings and community events.

Our inviting spaces include snack baskets on every floor, a hair salon, and even a dedicated Chaplain for added support. We also welcome visits from a local playgroup and therapy animals – yes, even alpacas! Homewood is more than just a care home; it’s a community designed to make every day meaningful and joyful.

For more information about the home, please click here

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.

Recruitment agencies: please note, MHA do not accept unsolicited CVs from recruitment agencies, regardless of whether they are on our Preferred Supplier List (PSL). We only accept CVs from agencies that have been appointed and briefed by MHA’s Talent Acquisition Team.