Cook

Elizabeth Fry Charity runs a Ministry of Justice Approved Premises in Reading, accommodating up to 24 women, mostly on licence from prison. We strive to be an excellent provider of accommodation and support for women in the criminal justice system.

Cook £28,560 - 31,644 (FTE), depending on experience

We are looking for a part time (25 hours per week) Cook to join our small, committed team.

We know that access to healthy and nutritious food has a positive impact on well-being. That’s why we have established this new post to ensure our residents have access to balanced meals. The Cook will also help women to improve their cookery and budgeting skills in preparation for their move to independent living.

You will need to be responsible, adaptable, open-minded and self motivated, capable of working in a lively environment and sensitive to the needs of others.

You will join an enthusiastic, supportive and committed team and will receive regular supervision and appropriate training for your particular needs.

Previous catering experience is a must and a Food Hygiene Level 2 qualification is desirable.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the successful candidate will be subject to a check by the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Interviews will be arranged as soon as suitable applications are received

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Delivery of Services and Standards

• Plan a weekly menu and, alongside the Housekeeper ensure ingredients are available and food waste is minimal.
• Prepare lunches and evening meals for residents, taking into account individual dietary needs.
• Ensure there is a stock of meals available for residents to cook on non-working days/during periods of leave.
• Participate in the programme of purposeful activities by providing opportunities for women to develop their cookery and budgeting skills and increase their knowledge in relation to food and nutrition
• Ensure that hygiene and cleanliness within the kitchen is of the highest standard in accordance with Environmental Health requirement and legislation in order to obtain a minimum 4-star Food Hygiene rating.
• Work cooperatively with the Housekeeper, covering essential tasks during periods of absence.

Management of Physical and Financial Resources

Physical Resources

• Ensure that any health and safety or building maintenance issues are reported to the Referral & Support Manager.
• Follow all health and safety, fire and Elizabeth Fry Charity security procedures.

Financial Resources

• Monitor the stock level of supplies and work with the Housekeeper to ensure the fridge and pantry is adequately stocked.

Management of Systems and Information

• Follow appropriate stock control systems.
• Ensure that any food is appropriately stored and labelled in accordance Food Hygiene regulations.

General

• Achieve or maintain a Food Hygiene Level 2 qualification. Undertake all training as required by your line manager.
• Contribute to the induction of new staff.
• Comply with all of Elizabeth Fry Charity policies and expectations.
• Undertake any other duties requested of you by a Manager to ensure the Approved Premises is able to function as required.

Person Specification

• Experience of cooking for others in a professional setting
• Knowledge of nutrition, dietary requirements and menu planning
• Knowledge and understanding of Food Hygiene legislation
• Ability to lead others through sharing of knowledge and skills
• Knowledge and understanding of professional boundaries
• A commitment to the work and values of Elizabeth Fry Charity
• High levels of enthusiasm, self - motivation and a "can do" attitude
• Enjoys using own initiative and being creative.