Catering Assistant

Company: North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust
Apply for the Catering Assistant
Location: Whitehaven
Job Description:

North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust – West Cumberland Hospital

Catering Assistant

The closing date is 21 July 2026

Catering Assistant – Band 2 – 75 hours available.

Our Catering Department plays a vital role in patient care and staff wellbeing. The successful applicant will assist in carrying out a range of catering duties efficiently and effectively, ensuring all who use the service receive a high‑quality service. We provide meals for our 260‑bed hospital, fresh food for the staff and visitor restaurant, and serve at our Costa café outlet.

The catering department operates seven days a week between 07:00 and 19:00, offering flexible opportunities for those looking to work around other commitments or gain experience in a supportive environment. Training is provided to all new staff, including Food Safety Level 2 and allergen training. Career progression: opportunities to grow into supervisory or specialist roles.

Job responsibilities

Please see attached job description and person specification for further information regarding the role and the essential and desirable criteria required to be met by applicants.

Person Specification

Qualifications

  • GCSE English language or equivalent
  • Food hygiene certificate

Knowledge and Experience

  • Food preparation and catering practices
  • Previous experience in a Catering role
  • Working in a hospital environment
  • Cash machine usage
  • Temperature record taking

Skills

  • Good communication and interpersonal skills
  • Able to work alone and in a team environment
  • Able to use initiative appropriately
  • Ability to follow health, safety and hygiene procedures
  • Awareness of appropriate image/appearance to suit service needs

Personal Circumstances

  • Ability to work shift patterns
  • Ability to work effectively under direct supervision, or as part of a multi‑disciplinary team
  • Reliable, adaptable and dependable
  • Evidence of ability to communicate with key staff (e.g., ward staff)

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and a DBS submission is required. The cost of the DBS must be met by the successful candidate through salary deduction. Standard Check: £28.00 over 4 months; Enhanced Check: £56.00 over 4 months.

Benefits

  • 27‑day holiday scheme rising to 33 after 10 years
  • NHS discounts
  • Salary sacrifice schemes including lease cars and Cycle to Work
  • Vivup – a free, confidential counselling and information service

EEO Statement

If you are applying under the Disability Confident Scheme or Armed Forces Covenant and you meet all the essential criteria, you will be guaranteed an interview.

Employer name

North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust

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Posted: July 10th, 2026