Cook

£28,080 per annum (pro rata)40 hours per week to include alternate weekendsCedar Lodge, Eastfield Lane, Whitchurch-on-Thames, Reading, RG8 7EJ

Role Overview

As the Cook at Cedar Lodge, you will be placed at the heart of the home along with the people that live here. You will work alongside the Head Chef and deputise in their absence. You will prepare and provide both nutritionally and satisfying meals for all residents. You will be part of the catering team and work closely with other departments making sure that the highest service standards are met. You will ensure that the mealtime experience is exceptional for every person regardless of their needs, including cultural/religious as well as medical needs such as IDDSI diet. Together with The Head Chef, you will maintain a safe working environment and lead by example.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Liaise with residents to ensure they are happy with the food and beverages being provided within the home - including attending resident dining experience committees
• Ensure the cleanliness of the kitchen and hygiene standards are achieved and maintained and is fit for EHO inspection at all times
• Ensure that the rota is covered and the correct level of team members are on shift
• Attend and actively contribute to team meetings
• Perform any additional duties as assigned by the Head Chef / Home Manager to support the overall functioning of the home.

Skills, Qualifications and Abilities

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience within a similar environment desirable
• NVQ Level 2 in Food Production & Cooking (or equivalent) or a willingness to complete this qualification if not already obtained.
• Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Office and internal applications; with the ability to learn new systems quickly.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also being self-motivated and capable of working independently.

The Company and Care Home

EQ Care Group (soon to be renamed as EQ Care Group) is a trusted provider of exceptional elderly care, dedicated to creating warm, compassionate environments where individuals can truly thrive. Operating for two years now, we currently have four homes open, with more being built to expand our portfolio. We specialise in delivering high-quality care to those who need it most, with a focus on dementia care and other complex needs. Our approach goes beyond simply meeting physical needs-we strive to create meaningful, enriching experiences for the people living in our homes. What sets us apart is our commitment to emotional intelligence, compassionate service, and personalised care.

Cedar Lodge is our newly built 45-bed nursing and dementia specialist care home in the heart of Whitchurch-on-Thames, combines modern comfort with classic charm, offering a welcoming home for people who need care & support. With spacious en-suite bedrooms, spectacular communal areas, and beautiful gardens, Cedar Lodge is a place to live well and thrive. We are looking for people to join our heart-centred team who will provide exceptional, personalised care, ensuring everyone feels valued, supported, and at home at Cedar Lodge.

Benefits

• 1/2-day off to start your birthday celebrations early
• Blue Light Discount Card
• 28 days annual leave (pro rata)
• Salary advance scheme
• Contributory pension
• Dedicated Learning & Development

Please note: If you are not a UK resident, you will need to be able to provide a valid right to work. We cannot provide sponsorship.

This job description may differ as new information technology, policies and contractual agreements change, and we reserve the right to vary duties without notice

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