Relief Kitchen Assistant

Hours: As and when required.

Responsible to: The Service Nurse Manager

Main Function:

The Relief Kitchen Assistant will support the Cook Manager and Assistant Cook in preparing nutritional meals that meet residents' dietary needs. The role involves food preparation, cleaning, and meal service, ensuring a safe and hygienic kitchen environment while maintaining the Christian ethos of the Council for Social Witness.

Background Information:

The Council for Social Witness (Older People Services) is part of the work and witness of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland and its aim is to provide care for older people in a specifically Christian ethos and environment, placing great emphasis on offering spiritual support and encouragement to residents, as well as physical care.

Harold McCauley House is one of 6 homes for older people run by the Council for Social Witness (Older People Services). The purpose-built Home accommodates 32 residents. The residents have a variety of physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs and varying levels of dependency.

The Home operates a No Smoking Policy.

About The Role

Key Responsibilities:

Food Preparation & Cooking:

• Assist the Cook Manager and Cook with daily food preparation.
• Help prepare vegetables, snacks, and meals as required.
• Serve meals in a timely and organized manner.
• Assist in preparing sandwiches, tea, and light meals for residents.
• Support cooking responsibilities when required.

Kitchen & Dining Area Maintenance:

• Ensure all kitchen areas are clean and hygienic, including shelves, drawers, and cookers.
• Clean floors, tiles, and appliances regularly.
• Wash dishes, utensils, and cooking equipment to maintain hygiene standards.
• Dispose of rubbish properly, ensuring waste is managed effectively.
• Maintain a tidy and organized work environment.

Dining Room & Meal Service:

• Clean and set up dining areas for mealtimes.
• Arrange trays and tables as needed for meal service.
• Assist in serving food to residents, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
• Arrange for the laundry of table linens, napkins, and tea towels.

Record-Keeping & Compliance:

• Maintain kitchen records as required.
• Follow all health and safety regulations related to food handling.
• Adhere to the policies and procedures of the Council for Social Witness.

Requirements & Skills:

Essential:

• A commitment to working within the Christian ethos of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.
• Integrity, honesty, patience, and a caring approach towards residents.
• An understanding of the needs of older people in a residential setting.
• Ability to work as part of a team and follow senior staff direction.
• Ability to treat residents as individuals and respect their preferences.
• Even temperament and good interpersonal skills.

Desirable:

• Previous experience in a kitchen, catering, or food service environment.
• Basic Food Hygiene Certificate or willingness to complete training.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and hygiene standards.

Working Conditions:

• A supportive team environment in a resident-focused care home.
• Opportunities to develop kitchen and cooking skills.

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys food preparation, working in a team, and contributing to the well-being of older people in a caring and respectful environment.

Required Criteria

• Evidence an understanding of and respect for the needs of older people
• Awareness of health and safety practices within a working and residential environment.
• Willingness to work additional hours to meet the requirements of the Home
• Must be willing to behave in a manner which respects the Christian ethos of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland

Desired Criteria

• Previous experience in a kitchen, catering, or food service environment.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and hygiene standards.
• Experience of working with older people
• NVQ2 in Food Preparation & Cooking (or equivalent qualification)

Skills Needed

About The Company

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI) is one of the largest Christian denominations in Ireland, with over 500 congregations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Rooted in the Reformed tradition, PCI is committed to spreading the Gospel, serving communities, and supporting mission work both locally and globally. The Church plays an active role in education, social care, and advocacy, reflecting its core values of faith, compassion, and service. Through worship, discipleship, and outreach, PCI seeks to make a meaningful impact on society while fostering a strong, supportive Christian community. Governed by a system of elders, the Church values biblical teaching, leadership, and engagement with contemporary issues. Additionally, PCI provides a range of resources and initiatives to support individuals, families, and communities in their faith journey.

Company Culture

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI) fosters a culture of faith, service, and community, rooted in biblical teaching and the Reformed tradition. It values integrity, compassion, and inclusivity, encouraging members to live out their faith through worship, discipleship, and outreach. PCI places a strong emphasis on servant leadership, where ministers, elders, and members work collaboratively to support one another and serve their communities. The Church is deeply committed to pastoral care, social responsibility, and global mission work, reflecting its dedication to making a positive impact both locally and internationally. With a focus on spiritual growth, education, and engagement with contemporary issues, PCI provides a welcoming and supportive environment where individuals and families can deepen their faith, contribute to meaningful causes, and build lasting relationships within a vibrant Christian community.

Company Benefits

Vacation, Paid time off, Retirement plan and/or pension, Employee Assistance Scheme, Perks Card, Annual Rise, On the job learning, Progression opportunities, Bereavement leave

Salary

£12.21 per hour