Weekend Chef

Job summary

Working as a Chef in an eating disorder service is both exceptionally challenging and rewarding. Our Chef's cater not only for our patients, but also our staff and any visitors. The food that is prepared for our patients is very specific and precise meals which have been nutritionally planned by our Dieticians. You will work very closely with our Dieticians and food suppliers to ensure the meals prepared meet the needs of our patients.

Main duties of the job

In addition to catering for our patients you will cater a range of hot meals and snacks for our staff working across all shifts, as well as visitors to the service. This is where you will be able to show your creativity and flare. You will receive training in Ellern Mede's policies and processes and will be expected to maintain your knowledge using our e-learning platform. The role includes working with a kitchen assistant, supervising the kitchen hygiene, stock control and ordering, maintaining stock of kitchen equipment and requesting replacements as required. Preparing food for all patients and staff Prepare special diets as directed by the Duty Registered Nurse and/or Dietician. Prepare written menus in consultation with the dietetic team and other remembers of the MDT.

About us

Ellern Mede is a leading specialist mental healthcare provider, offering tailored care for individuals of all ages (8+). With over 25 years of dedicated service, Ellern Mede is recognised for its positive outcomes and ability to provide personalised care for individuals with severe and complex mental health needs. Alongside our recognised expertise in eating disorders, we support people with a range of complex and co-occurring needs. We take a holistic approach, shaping care to support the individual's long-term recovery and independence. We work nationally and internationally with NHS commissioners, insurers, overseas governments, and private funders to provide bespoke inpatient placements

Details

• Date posted: 13 August 2026
• Pay scheme: Other
• Salary: £12.71 an hour
• Contract: Permanent
• Working pattern: Part-time
• Reference number: oc-1786343965-5K3AC
• Job locations: Barnet, EN5 5EE, United Kingdom

Job responsibilities

Working as a Chef in an eating disorder service is both exceptionally challenging and rewarding. Our Chef's cater not only for our patients, but also our staff and any visitors. The food that is prepared for our patients is very specific and precise meals which have been nutritionally planned by our Dieticians. You will work very closely with our Dieticians and food suppliers to ensure the meals prepared meet the needs of our patients. In addition to catering for our patients you will cater a range of hot meals and snacks for our staff working across all shifts, as well as visitors to the service. This is where you will be able to show your creativity and flare. You will receive training in Ellern Mede's policies and processes and will be expected to maintain your knowledge using our e-learning platform. The role includes working with a kitchen assistant, supervising the kitchen hygiene, stock control and ordering, maintaining stock of kitchen equipment and requesting replacements as required. Preparing food for all patients and staff Prepare special diets as directed by the Duty Registered Nurse and/or Dietician. Prepare written menus in consultation with the dietetic team and other remembers of the MDT.