Kitchen Assistant

About The Role

In your role as a Kitchen Assistant at HC‑One, you’ll value kindness above all. It’s the thread that runs through everything we do in our Dementia, Nursing, Residential and Specialist care homes. Every person who works with us understands that our residents are individuals with their own life experiences, families and stories. By joining HC‑One you’ll have the chance to make a meaningful difference every day — giving something back to those who have given so much throughout their lives.

Please be aware this role is for bank hours only.

• Assist with meal preparation under the direction of the Chef or Cook.
• Serve meals with warmth and respect in a timely and friendly manner.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen, including equipment and surfaces.
• Monitor and record food storage temperatures (fridges, freezers, etc.).
• Support stock rotation and ensure ingredients are properly stored.
• Show new team members how to safely use kitchen equipment.
• Wash up and keep the kitchen spotless, even after a busy lunch rush.

Everything you do will reflect your care for the residents, always keeping their comfort and dignity front of mind.

We’re looking for someone with some kitchen experience and a real passion for helping others. You’ll need either an NVQ2 in Catering or Food Preparation, or a willingness to work towards it. Strong organisational skills, a keen eye for detail and the ability to follow recipes and record information accurately are essential. Most importantly, every time you interact with a resident or co‑worker you’ll show patience, respect and genuine kindness.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and it is important that you are able to recognise the signs which may indicate possible abuse, harm or neglect in its different forms and know what to do if there are any concerns. All colleagues are required to attend safeguarding training appropriate to their role and to undertake additional training in associated areas. You also have the ability to seek appropriate advice and report concerns, including escalation if action is not taken.

At HC‑One, kindness is more than a word—it’s a way of life. We believe that caring for people means caring about what matters most to them, so we can support them to live their best possible lives.

To provide the kindest possible care, everyone at HC‑One brings and nurtures five key qualities — what we call Kindness the HC‑One Way:

• We are curious — asking questions, seeking to understand.
• We are compassionate — walking in the shoes of others.
• We are creative — finding practical ways to make things happen.
• We are courageous — supporting residents to live the life they choose.
• We are dependable — people can always count on us.

We champion inclusivity, fostering a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to be themselves. Our diverse workforce helps us learn from one another and better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds into our HC‑One family and prioritise inclusive working practices across everything we do.

We are also enhancing the way we support residents through digital care planning. This technology is helping us streamline care, improve outcomes and make daily tasks more efficient. As we continue to grow our digital capabilities we’re looking for team members who are comfortable with technology — or open to learning. You’ll be supported every step of the way.

We care about our colleagues and are committed to supporting your personal and professional development. From the moment you receive a job offer we aim for the quickest possible turnaround to get you started, with full support every step of the way. With clear career pathways, continuous professional development and postgraduate programmes, HC‑One will invest in your growth — opening up opportunities at regional and national levels.

• Hourly rate is subject to experience and qualifications.
• Paid Enhanced DBS/PVG.
• Free uniform.
• During a shift of eight hours or more a nutritious meal will be available.
• Company pension scheme.
• 28 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays.
• Group…