Peripatetic Chef
About this role
Job Title: Peripatetic Chef
Client Base Location: Austen House Care Home, Kilnsea Drive, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 3UJ
Coverage Area: Regional support across care homes in and around the local region
Agency: Supportive Bridge Staffing
Pay Rate: £21.50 per hour + mileage / travel costs
Hours: 40.00 hours per week (Permanent, Day Shifts)
Exceptional Culinary Impact. True Work-Life Balance.
At Supportive Bridge Staffing, we specialize in connecting high-caliber culinary professionals with premier healthcare and hospitality providers across the UK. On behalf of our client, Barchester Healthcare—an industry leader operating over 224 high-rated care homes and hospitals—we are seeking a talented and mobile Peripatetic Chef based near the Austen House Care Home area in Reading to support care home kitchens across the region.
If you are a qualified Chef looking to step away from unsociable late-night hours while using your culinary passion to deliver fresh, nutritious meals that truly matter, this mobile 40-hour role offers dynamic variety and outstanding rewards.
About the Role
As a Peripatetic Chef, you will travel across assigned regional homes to step into kitchen management, support local teams, and elevate resident dining through fresh, seasonal menus.
Your key duties will include:
Regional Culinary Support: Providing mobile chef cover across regional homes to maintain seamless, top-tier kitchen operations and food quality.
Fresh Food Preparation: Crafting high-quality, fresh, seasonal dishes that cater to specific nutritional needs and dietary preferences of older adults.
Kitchen Management: Leading kitchen staff efficiently, enforcing food safety protocols, managing stock, and maintaining spotless hygiene standards.
Resident Interaction: Building a warm, welcoming dining culture by engaging directly with residents to gather feedback and refine food offerings.
About You
We are seeking a warm, confident culinary leader with strong kitchen management skills and a commitment to resident well-being.
Requirements & Qualifications:
Qualifications: NVQ/SVQ or City & Guilds in Professional Cookery (or equivalent).
Certifications: Up-to-date Food Hygiene Certification.
Culinary Experience: Proven experience working with fresh, seasonal ingredients, paired with a solid understanding of nutrition and dietary requirements.
Soft Skills: Friendly, personable approach with the confidence to interact warmly with residents and inspire kitchen teams.
Mobility: Full flexibility and willingness to travel between care homes in the region.
Rewards Package & Benefits
Competitive Pay & Travel: £21.50 per hour plus mileage/travel cost reimbursement.
Work-Life Balance: Enjoy daytime shift patterns with alternate weekends off—no late nights!
Recognition & Showcase: Opportunities to highlight your culinary talent at the annual Barchester Hospitality Awards.
Perks & Discounts: Access to a wide range of holiday, retail, and leisure discounts.
Referral Scheme: Unlimited access to the 'Refer a Friend' bonus scheme.