Chef based at Rushden Park, Rushden

About the role

We are looking for a skilled and motivated Chef to join our catering team at MHA. This is a rewarding role where you will play a vital part in supporting residents’ health, wellbeing and enjoyment of daily life through high-quality, nutritious meals.

As a Chef, you will be responsible for preparing and serving meals that meet residents’ dietary and nutritional needs, while respecting individual choice, dignity and cultural preferences. You will help maintain a safe, efficient and welcoming kitchen environment, in line with food safety legislation and MHA values.

What you will do

• Prepare, cook and serve nutritious meals for residents, visitors and staff, including catering for occasional events.
• Plan menus with the Home Manager to ensure meals are balanced, appealing and meet individual dietary needs, including those of residents living with dementia.
• Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health & safety and HACCP requirements, maintaining accurate records and audits.
• Manage food stocks and ordering, ensuring cost-effectiveness and adherence to agreed budgets.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in all kitchen and food storage areas.
• Supervise and support kitchen assistants and oversee others using the kitchen.
• Assist with the induction and training of new kitchen staff.
• Attend staff and resident meetings where appropriate.

About you

We are looking for someone who is organised, reliable and passionate about delivering good-quality food and service for older people.

You will bring:

• Previous experience cooking in a care, hospitality, restaurant or pub environment.
• Knowledge and understanding of food safety and HACCP principles.
• The ability to work well as part of a team and communicate clearly with colleagues.
• A flexible approach to work and willingness to work a 7-day rota.
• Sensitivity to the needs of older people and a commitment to quality and customer-focused service.
• Willingness to undertake further training and development as required.
• Relevant catering qualifications (e.g. City & Guilds, NVQ Level 2, or equivalent) are desirable but not essential.

Why join MHA?

You will be joining an organisation with strong values, a supportive culture and a genuine commitment to helping people live later life well. At MHA, catering plays a central role in residents’ wellbeing, and your contribution will be valued and recognised.

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 clear development opportunities
• Long service awards to celebrate your contribution

About the home

Rushden Park care home in Rushden

Rushden Park is a modern and welcoming nursing home where colleagues support residents with a range of needs in a safe and comfortable setting. The team atmosphere is positive and collaborative, helping new colleagues feel included and encouraged from day one.

Colleagues work together to provide high quality, person centred care that respects dignity and independence. A varied activities programme and spacious gardens give colleagues opportunities to be creative and to build meaningful relationships with residents.

For job seekers looking to develop their skills in nursing and residential care, Rushden Park offers a supportive environment, clear shared purpose and the chance to make a real difference.

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.