Job Description

Head Cook - Specialist Mental Health Nursing Home

38.5 hours per week, including alternate weekends

Bancroft Care Centre is a newly commissioned specialist mental health service based in Mansfield, providing high-quality care and support to adults with complex mental health conditions in an environment . We are committed to delivering person-centred care in a therapeutic, safe, and supportive environment.

We are now seeking an experienced, passionate, and organised Head Cook to lead our catering service and ensure that our service users enjoy nutritious, delicious, and well-presented meals every day.

Role Overview

As our Head Cook, you will take full responsibility for the day-to-day management of the catering department. You will lead a small kitchen team, ensure compliance with all food hygiene and dietary regulations, and create seasonal, varied menus tailored to the diverse needs and preferences of our service users--including those with modified diets, cultural requirements, and clinical nutrition plans.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage all aspects of the catering operation, including food preparation, menu planning, budgeting, stock control, and ordering.

Supervise, train, and support kitchen staff in line with our internal standards and infection prevention and control protocols.

Develop nutritious, appetising, and well-balanced menus that meet service users' dietary needs, including mental health and dementia-related considerations.

Ensure full compliance with food safety legislation (including HACCP), CQC fundamental standards, Environmental Health, and COSHH regulations.

Liaise closely with the nursing and care teams to adapt menus for individuals with dysphagia, diabetes, allergies, or other dietary requirements.

Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised kitchen in line with best practice standards.

About You

Proven experience as a Head Cook, Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a care home, hospital, or similar setting.

NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent).

Food Safety Level 3 (minimum).

Strong leadership, organisation, and communication skills.

A passion for delivering high-quality meals that enhance service users' well-being and quality of life.

Understanding of specialist diets, mental health, and the importance of food in therapeutic environments is highly desirable.

What We Offer

Competitive salary and enhanced weekend pay.

A supportive and inclusive team culture.

Regular training and CPD opportunities.

Free uniform.

Apply Today

If you're ready to lead a caring and skilled kitchen team in a rewarding mental health care environment, we'd love to hear from you

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 16.00-17.00 per hour

Expected hours: 38.5 per week

Schedule:

8 hour shift
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: BancHCoo
Expected start date: 11/08/2025