Relief Cook and Catering Assistant
Job Description
Job Summary
An opportunity has become available for a Relief Cook and Catering Assistant to join our Hotel Services team. You will support the delivery of catering services within the Trust’s eating disorder service kitchen and on-site coffee shop, serving staff, patients, and visitors.
This is a hands-on, fast-paced role requiring flexibility, attention to hygiene standards, and a strong focus on customer service. The successful applicant must be capable of working independently and as part of a team and be able to work early and late shifts across a 7-day rota.
Key Responsibilities
Prepare, cook, and serve meals and beverages in line with standardized recipes and dietary needs.
Assist in menu planning and ensure portion control, food quality, and presentation meet required standards.
Handle cash and operate tills in the coffee shop as needed.
Complete daily records and documentation, including food safety and allergen logs.
Ensure compliance with food hygiene and safety legislation (including HACCP and allergen regulations).
Maintain a clean and hygienic working environment, using appropriate cleaning materials and equipment.
Manage and store stock effectively, supporting the ordering of supplies as required.
Support hospitality services for meetings or events when necessary.
Provide excellent customer service to all service users.
Work flexibly and be available at short notice to cover absences or service needs.
Travel independently across different Trust sites when required.
Person Specification
Qualifications (Essential):
NVQ Level 2 in Catering and Hospitality (City & Guilds 706/1 or equivalent)
Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (must be willing to complete Level 3 within an agreed timescale)
Functional numeracy and literacy at Level 1
Qualifications (Desirable):
NVQ Level 3 in Catering and Hospitality (706/2 or equivalent)
Experience (Essential):
Experience in a professional catering or food service environment
Experience using cleaning equipment and chemicals safely
Experience with general cleaning duties
Basic IT skills (e.g. for documentation and stock systems)
Experience (Desirable):
Previous experience in a healthcare or NHS catering environment
Skills and Knowledge (Essential):
Good understanding of food safety and hygiene, including COSHH and Health & Safety regulations
Ability to follow verbal and written instructions accurately
Effective communication and teamwork skills
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a busy environment
Skills and Knowledge (Desirable):
Awareness of the National Standards of Cleanliness
Basic understanding of nutrition
Familiarity with PLACE (Patient-Led Assessments of the Care Environment)
About Us
Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust provides a wide range of mental health and learning disability services. Our Hotel Services team is part of the Estates and Facilities Directorate and delivers vital non-clinical support services including catering, cleaning, portering, and hospitality across the Trust.
We hold the Hospitality Assured accreditation, reflecting our commitment to quality, customer service, and excellence in non-clinical care environments.
Additional Information
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS):
This post is subject to a DBS check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975.
Right to Work:
This position is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Only applicants who already have the right to work in the UK will be considered.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted via the NHS Jobs portal by 01 September 2025. Please ensure your application clearly demonstrates how you meet the essential criteria outlined above.
