Peripatetic Chef
About this role
Job Advertisement: Peripatetic Chef (Permanent - Full-Time)
Position Overview
Role: Peripatetic Chef - Care Home (Permanent)
Location: Laurel Bank Care Home, Westbourne Road, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 5EF (with travel to support homes across the region)
Pay Rate: £19.59 per hour + mileage/travel costs
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: 40.00 hours per week
Shift: Days (working days with alternate weekends)
Closing Date: 19 September 2026
About the Role
Are you a qualified Chef looking for a better work-life balance while making a truly meaningful impact?
Working as a permanent Peripatetic Chef through our supportive bridge staffing agency on behalf of Barchester Healthcare, you will travel across our care homes in the region to support multiple teams in delivering high-quality, fresh food. This is an exciting opportunity to bring your culinary talents to an award-winning healthcare provider, ensuring nutritious, seasonal meals are crafted to the highest standards while creating a warm, welcoming dining experience for every resident.
Key Responsibilities (What You'll Do)
Travel to care homes across the region to provide flexible chef cover and culinary leadership.
Prepare and produce fresh, seasonal, and nutritious meals tailored to the dietary needs and wellbeing of residents.
Manage kitchen operations effectively across different care home environments.
Engage confidently with residents to gather feedback and enhance their daily dining experience.
Support kitchen teams, uphold food hygiene standards, and share best practices.
Candidate Requirements (What You'll Need)
Professional culinary qualifications (NVQs/SVQs or City & Guilds equivalent).
Up-to-date food hygiene certification.
Proven experience working with fresh, seasonal food and a solid understanding of nutrition.
Strong kitchen management skills and the flexibility to travel across the region.
A personable, caring approach with a genuine interest in the wellbeing of residents.
Rewards & Benefits Package
Competitive Pay: Excellent hourly rate of £19.59 plus travel/mileage costs.
Work-Life Balance: Structured daytime hours with alternate weekends.
Recognition & Awards: Opportunity to showcase your talent at the annual Barchester Hospitality Awards.
Perks & Savings: A comprehensive range of holiday, retail, and leisure discounts, plus an unlimited 'Refer a Friend' bonus scheme.