Chef based at Hampton Lodge, Southampton

Location: Hampton Lodge, Southampton

Hours: 30 hours per week

Salary: £15.57 per hour

For this role, we are currently considering candidates who live within approximately 15 miles of the Care Home. This ensures commutes are manageable and support your wellbeing and work-life balance. If you live outside this area but would still find the commute manageable, please get in touch - we are happy to review individual circumstances.

About the role

We are looking for a skilled and motivated Chef to join our catering team at MHA. This is a rewarding role where you will play a vital part in supporting residents’ health, wellbeing and enjoyment of daily life through high-quality, nutritious meals.

As a Chef, you will be responsible for preparing and serving meals that meet residents’ dietary and nutritional needs, while respecting individual choice, dignity and cultural preferences. You will help maintain a safe, efficient and welcoming kitchen environment, in line with food safety legislation and MHA values.

What you will do

• Prepare, cook and serve nutritious meals for residents, visitors and staff, including catering for occasional events.
• Plan menus with the Home Manager to ensure meals are balanced, appealing and meet individual dietary needs, including those of residents living with dementia.
• Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health & safety and HACCP requirements, maintaining accurate records and audits.
• Manage food stocks and ordering, ensuring cost-effectiveness and adherence to agreed budgets.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in all kitchen and food storage areas.
• Supervise and support kitchen assistants and oversee others using the kitchen.
• Assist with the induction and training of new kitchen staff.
• Attend staff and resident meetings where appropriate.

About you

We are looking for someone who is organised, reliable and passionate about delivering good-quality food and service for older people.

You will bring:

• Previous experience cooking in a care, hospitality, restaurant or pub environment.
• Knowledge and understanding of food safety and HACCP principles.
• The ability to work well as part of a team and communicate clearly with colleagues.
• A flexible approach to work and willingness to work a 7-day rota.
• Sensitivity to the needs of older people and a commitment to quality and customer-focused service.
• Willingness to undertake further training and development as required.
• Relevant catering qualifications (e.g. City & Guilds, NVQ Level 2, or equivalent) are desirable but not essential.

Why join MHA?

You will be joining an organisation with strong values, a supportive culture and a genuine commitment to helping people live later life well. At MHA, catering plays a central role in residents’ wellbeing, and your contribution will be valued and recognised.

Rewards and benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, you will enjoy:

• 28 days holiday (including bank holidays) and an option to buy annual leave (pro-rota for part time).
• A strong pension scheme and life assurance
• Free DBS checks and uniforms (where applicable)
• Confidential counselling, chaplaincy support and access to our hardship fund
• Flexible options to buy or sell annual leave, plus family-friendly policies
• Discounts through the Blue Light Card, Health Service Discounts and the Vivup app
• A full induction, ongoing training and clear development opportunities
• Long service awards to celebrate your contribution

About the home

Hampton Lodge care home in Southampton

Hampton Lodge is a welcoming and people-focused home where colleagues work together to provide respectful and uplifting care. The team environment is warm and collaborative, helping new colleagues feel supported and valued from day one.

With a strong emphasis on dignity, independence and person-centred support, colleagues play a key role in helping residents live well. MHA’s charitable values shape the culture, promoting kindness, teamwork and opportunities to develop.

For job seekers wanting a meaningful career in a positive and supportive setting, Hampton Lodge offers a place to grow, learn and make a genuine impact.

For more information about the home, please click