Job description

Job responsibilities

Patient Meal Service

• Serve evening meals to patients in accordance with ward procedures.
• Ensure meals are distributed accurately, taking into account dietary requirements and patient preferences where applicable.
• Assist in preparing and serving soup during the evening soup round.
• Carry out the evening tea and beverage round, offering hot and cold drinks to patients.
• Maintain a courteous, professional, and patient-focused approach at all times.

• Clean and sanitise all kitchen work surfaces, sinks, cupboards, and food preparation areas following meal service.
• Wash, dry, and store crockery, cutlery, and kitchen equipment safely and appropriately.
• Ensure kitchen areas remain clean, tidy, and free from hazards throughout the shift.
• Dispose of waste in accordance with local procedures and infection prevention requirements.
• Replenish stocks of consumables and refreshments as required.

• Adhere to food hygiene regulations and infection prevention standards at all times.
• Monitor food storage conditions and report any concerns immediately.
• Complete temperature checks on refrigerators and food items as required.
• Ensure safe handling and storage of food products and beverages.

• Complete daily cleaning schedules accurately and within required timescales.
• Maintain records of temperature monitoring and food safety checks.
• Complete all relevant housekeeping and catering documentation.
• Report any maintenance issues, equipment faults, or environmental concerns through the appropriate reporting process.

• Liaise effectively with nursing staff, catering services, and facilities teams.
• Report any patient concerns relating to meals or refreshments to the nurse in charge.
• Contribute to a positive and professional working environment.
• Attend mandatory training and comply with Trust policies and procedures.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and use initiative.
• Reliable, punctual, and organised.
• Ability to maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
• Basic literacy and numeracy skills.
• Ability to complete records and paperwork accurately.

• Previous housekeeping, catering, or healthcare experience.
• Knowledge of food hygiene and infection prevention procedures.
• Experience working in a hospital or care environment.

The post holder is responsible for maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food service, ensuring patient satisfaction, complying with hygiene and safety requirements, and accurately completing all required documentation during weekend evening shifts.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

• Good numeracy and literacy skills

Desirable

• Maths and English GCSEs grade C/4 or equivalent
• NVQ Cleaning
• Level 2 food hygiene certificate
• Basic health and safety certificate

Experience

Essential

• Experience of working in a customer focused environment

Desirable

• Experience of working in a healthcare environment
• Previous experience in housekeeping/cleaning/catering services

Skills and knowledge

Essential

• Literate and numerate
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to understand and follow instructions
• Ability to record information accurately
• Flexibility

Desirable

• An understanding of infection control principles

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details

Employer name

Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Bognor Regis War Memorial Hospital

Bognor Regis

PO22 9PP

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.sussexcommunity.nhs.uk/work-with-us/ (Opens in a new tab)