Volunteer Chef-Mentor at Esteem

What does the opportunity involve doing?

As a Volunteer Chef-Mentor, you will be responsible for preparing and cooking a variety of meals, including baking and dinners, keeping to a budget and ensuring Esteem young adults can enjoy nutritious, tasty, and wholesome food. This may also involve utilising ingredients from fairshare collections to minimise food waste.

In addition, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the young adults, encouraging and teaching them cooking skills that promote independence and confidence in the kitchen. Meal Preparation & Cooking: Prepare and cook daily meals (including dinner and occasional baked goods) for up to 20 young adults per session.

Menu Planning: Assist with planning balanced, healthy, and budget-friendly menus that cater to a variety of dietary requirements.
Food Safety & Hygiene: Ensure all food is prepared and cooked to the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and cleanliness.

Inventory Management: Help monitor stock levels, order supplies, and manage kitchen resources effectively.
Team Collaboration: Work alongside staff and young adults to create a welcoming and positive atmosphere during meal times.
Cooking Skills Development: Support and encourage young adults in developing their cooking skills. At times, you will invite them to cook alongside you, helping them learn basic techniques, meal planning, and food preparation.
Special Dietary Needs: Accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other allergies

What induction, training and support is offered?

You will be required to complete an Esteem induction into the role which will include safeguarding.

In addition to this you will be required to complete and pass a Level 2 online food hygiene course if you do not hold this qualification already.

Mealtimes are: Monday’s from 6pm and Wednesday’s from 6.30pm

Cooking can be completed either before sessions Monday and Wednesday 12:30pm - 3:00pm or in sessions working with young adults assisting, from 5pm on Monday and 6pm on Wednesday.

Depending on the meal cooked we do not anticipate the role to take more than 2 hours per shift

The hours specified for this role coincide with both our Wellbeing and Social Youth Worker and our Wellbeing Youth Projects Workers working hours. This enables us to provide the applicant with any support or guidance with the drop in menu, potential young adult numbers attending session and budget. As well as, giving scope to any young adults to help or assist with any food shopping or cooking on each day.

What skills or qualities are needed?

Proven experience and passion for cooking and food preparation, ideally in a professional or volunteer setting.
A passion for working with young people and helping them develop skills that will enhance their independence and confidence.
Good interpersonal skills, ability to listen, friendly, encouraging, and patient in a diverse environment.
Ability to adapt your communication and approach to suit individuals from diverse backgrounds and skill levels.
Understanding of food safety regulations and hygiene standards.
Ability to work efficiently and collaboratively within a team environment.
Flexibility and willingness to assist with additional kitchen-related tasks when required.
Motivated by promoting the development and wellbeing of young people; providing opportunities for growth where possible.