Kitchen Assistant (Relief/Bank) based at Hampton Lodge, Southampton

Location: Hampton Lodge, Southampton
Hours: Relief/Bank hours per week
Salary: £13.45 per hour

For this role, we are currently considering candidates who live within approximately 15 miles of the Service. 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 reliable and enthusiastic Kitchen Assistant to join our catering team at MHA. This is a valued role, supporting the Cook to deliver nutritious, well-presented meals that meet residents’ dietary needs while helping to maintain a clean, safe and welcoming kitchen environment.

As a Kitchen Assistant, you will play an important part in supporting residents’ health and wellbeing, working in line with food safety standards and MHA’s values of care, respect and dignity.

What you will do

Support the Cook with food preparation, serving meals, washing up and storing crockery and utensils safely.

Keep all areas of the kitchen clean and tidy in line with cleaning schedules and the Food Safety Manual.

Dispose of waste food safely and hygienically.

Ensure adequate supplies of cleaning and washing-up materials are available.

Assist with laundry tasks for kitchen linen.

Follow COSHH, food hygiene, health & safety and infection prevention requirements at all times.

Respect residents’ privacy, dignity and choice.

Attend training, supervision, appraisals and staff meetings as required.

About you

We are looking for someone who is dependable, caring and enjoys working as part of a team.

You will bring:

A basic food hygiene certificate (essential).

Previous experience of basic food preparation (desirable).

Good communication and listening skills.

The ability to follow instructions and prioritise tasks effectively.

A positive, flexible approach to work.

Sensitivity to the needs of older people and a commitment to quality service.

Willingness to undertake training and development.

A QCF Level 2 or 3 in Health & Social Care is desirable but not essential, as training will be provided.

Why join MHA?

You will be joining an organisation with strong values and a supportive culture, where every role contributes to helping people live later life well. At MHA, catering teams play a vital part in residents’ daily enjoyment and wellbeing.

Rewards and benefits

In addition to a competitive hourly rate, 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

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 development opportunities

Long service awards to celebrate your contribution

About the Service

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 

Please note that interviews may take place prior to the closing date and if a suitable candidate is appointed the role may close early.

Recruitment agencies: please note, MHA do not accept unsolicited CVs from recruitment agencies, regardless of whether they are on our Preferred Supplier List (PSL). We only accept CVs from agencies that have been appointed and briefed by MHA’s Recruitment Team