Peripatetic Chef
About this role
Peripatetic Chef
Location: Regional Support based from Sutton Valence Care Home, North Street, Maidstone, ME17 3LW
(Supporting care homes in and around the local region)
Pay Rate: £20.00 per hour + mileage/travel expenses
Hours: 40.00 hours per week
Shift Pattern: Day Shifts (Alternate weekends; no split shifts)
Employment Type: Permanent
About the Opportunity
Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency is proud to partner with Barchester Healthcare to find an exceptional, mobile Peripatetic Chef to support care homes across the local region.
Are you a qualified Chef looking to combine high culinary standards with a far better work-life balance? This dynamic role allows you to bring your passion for fresh, seasonal food across several homes in the region, helping multiple kitchen teams deliver top-tier hospitality without late nights or split shifts.
About the Role
As a Peripatetic Chef, you will travel between regional care homes to step in, support, and lead kitchen operations when required, ensuring consistent culinary excellence and resident satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:
Regional Support: Travel between regional homes to cover kitchen leadership and maintain seamless service delivery.
Culinary Excellence: Work with fresh, seasonal produce to cook nutritious, flavoursome, and tailored dishes for residents.
Team Leadership: Assist local kitchen teams, sharing best practices and fostering a warm, efficient environment.
Kitchen Operations: Manage kitchen budgets, stock control, regular audits, and strict food hygiene compliance (HACCP).
About You
We are looking for an adaptable, mobile chef with strong leadership capability and a warm, resident-focused approach.
Requirements:
Qualifications: City & Guilds / NVQ / SVQ (or equivalent) in Professional Cookery.
Certifications: Up-to-date Food Hygiene certification.
Skills & Experience: Strong kitchen management experience, working with fresh seasonal produce, and understanding nutrition.
Interpersonal Skills: Confidence engaging with residents and collaborating adaptably across various care home teams.
Mobility: Willingness and capability to travel between care homes in the region (mileage paid).
Rewards & Benefits Package
In return for your skill and regional flexibility, you will receive:
Competitive Pay: £20.00 / hour + paid mileage/travel costs (40 hrs/week, Permanent)
Work-Life Balance: Day shifts with alternate weekends
Recognition: Opportunity to showcase your talent at the annual Barchester Hospitality Awards
Perks & Discounts: A wide range of holiday, retail, and leisure savings
Referral Scheme: Unlimited bonuses through the 'Refer a Friend' initiative
Career Growth: Opportunities within a sector-leading organization opening 10 brand-new purpose-built homes each year