Second Chef - Care Home

Second Chef – Care Home (Permanent) via Supportive Bridge Staffing

Job Overview

• Position: Second Chef - Care Home (Permanent, Full-Time)

• Location: Wakehurst Hall Care Home, Haywards Heath, RH16 4AB

• Pay Rate: £16.00 per hour

• Contract Hours: 40.00 hours per week

• Shift Pattern: Days

• Posted Date: 16 September 2026 | Closing Date: 1 January 2027

• Recruited via: Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency in partnership with Barchester Healthcare

About the Role

As a permanent Second Chef at Wakehurst Hall, you will help deliver hotel and restaurant standards of catering without the split shifts and long working weeks, allowing for an exceptional work-life balance.

Working closely with the Head Chef, you will assist in menu development, take charge of kitchen operations in their absence, and use fresh seasonal ingredients to produce wholesome, high-quality dishes. You will engage directly with residents to tailor menus around their preferences and contribute to a warm, vibrant hospitality experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the kitchen operations and team in the Head Chef’s absence.

• Assist the Head Chef with menu development and tailoring dishes to resident preferences.

• Prepare and cook high-quality, wholesome dishes using fresh, seasonal produce.

• Maintain kitchen budgets, manage stock control, and complete regular compliance audits.

• Foster a warm, efficient, and supportive environment within the kitchen and dining areas.

What We Are Looking For

• Qualifications: Hold City & Guilds / NVQ / SVQ or equivalent catering qualifications.

• Experience: Practical experience working with fresh seasonal food and a solid understanding of nutrition and HACCP standards.

• Values: A personable, warm approach, excellent communication skills, and a genuine passion for resident wellbeing.

• Commitment: Available for a permanent full-time contract of 40 hours per week.

Rewards & Benefits Package

• Competitive Pay: Earn a reliable hourly rate of £16.00 per hour on a permanent contract.

• Bonuses & Recognition: Up to £500 through the 'Rewarding Excellence' CQC bonus scheme and unlimited £500 'Refer a Friend' bonuses.

• Wellbeing & Support: Free medical specialist access for second opinions, confidential counselling and legal services, and a tax code review service.

• Perks: Retail and leisure discounts with big brands and supermarkets, plus optional staff lottery membership.