Chef

Location: The Lodge, South Shields, Tyne and Wear, United Kingdom Job Type: Permanent, Full Time 38 hours per week, including occasional evenings and weekends) Sponsorship: Not Currently Available Join Marton Care Homes and Become Part of the South Shields Community At Marton Care Homes, we believe that great care starts with compassion, respect, and a genuine commitment to helping people live fulfilling lives. As a family-run care group, we create warm and welcoming homes where residents are treated with dignity, encouraged to remain independent, and supported to enjoy every day. At The Lodge in South Shields, we are proud to be part of a town known for its rich maritime heritage, strong community spirit, and friendly atmosphere. From generations of shipbuilders and seafarers to the thriving local community seen today, South Shields has always been a place where people look out for one another. Those same values are at the heart of our home. We're looking for a passionate and dedicated Chef/Cook to join our team and help create nutritious, delicious meals that bring comfort, enjoyment, and a sense of home to our residents. Food plays a special role in care home life. A favourite meal can spark memories, encourage conversation, and create moments of happiness. As our Chef/Cook, you'll help make every dining experience something residents look forward to. About The Role As Chef/Cook, you will be responsible for planning, preparing, and delivering nutritious, high-quality meals that cater to residents' preferences, dietary requirements, and individual tastes. You'll lead by example within the kitchen, maintaining excellent food safety standards while creating an inviting dining experience that reflects the warmth and community spirit of The Lodge. What You'll Be Doing As our Chef/Cook, you will:

• Plan, prepare, and cook a varied range of nutritious and appealing meals tailored to residents' preferences and dietary requirements.
• Follow Marton Care Homes' Good Food Guide and implement approved menu adaptations where required.
• Lead, support, and encourage members of the kitchen team to maintain high standards.
• Conduct supervision and appraisals for kitchen team members.
• Assist with recruitment and interviews for kitchen vacancies.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, Health & Safety, COSHH, and Environmental Health requirements.
• Implement and maintain kitchen cleaning schedules to the highest standards.
• Ensure all kitchen areas, equipment, utensils, and food preparation areas remain clean, safe, and organised.
• Manage food ordering, deliveries, stock rotation, and stock control to maintain quality and minimise waste.
• Monitor kitchen equipment and report maintenance issues promptly.
• Contribute to team meetings and support the development of catering colleagues.
• Build positive relationships with residents and families, gathering feedback and adapting menus to meet their needs and preferences.
• Help create dining experiences that bring residents together and foster a sense of community within the home. What We're Looking For We're seeking someone who is:
• Passionate about food and the positive impact it has on people's wellbeing.
• Warm, friendly, and approachable.
• Organised, reliable, and able to work effectively in a busy kitchen environment.
• A supportive leader who enjoys developing and encouraging others.
• Creative and enthusiastic when planning menus and meals.
• Committed to delivering high-quality standards.
• Flexible and willing to work occasional evenings and weekends.
• Experienced within a catering or chef role.
• Previous experience within a care setting is beneficial but not essential. Why Join The Lodge in South Shields? South Shields is a town built on community, resilience, and tradition. Whether it's the stunning coastline, the bustling local markets, or the strong connections between generations of families, there is a real sense of belonging here. At The Lodge, we strive to reflect those same values by creating a home where residents feel comfortable, connected, and valued. Many of our residents have deep ties to South Shields and the surrounding area, and food often plays an important role in celebrating local traditions, family memories, and lifelong experiences. As our Chef/Cook, you'll have the opportunity to create meals that do much more than provide nutrition. You'll help foster friendships, encourage conversation, and contribute to the warm community atmosphere that makes our home special. What We Offer Working at Marton Care Homes means being part of something special. You'll enjoy:
• A friendly, supportive, and welcoming workplace.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Career progression within a growing care group.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day.
• A valued role within a close-knit and supportive team.
• The chance to play an important role in residents' wellbeing and quality of life.
• Working in a home that is proud to be part of the South Shields community. Apply Today Join The Lodge, South Shields, and help us create memorable mealtimes, meaningful connections, and exceptional experiences for our residents every day. INDMAR