Volunteer Kitchen Assistant

Join us as a Volunteer Kitchen Assistant to help with our Kitchen operations.

Our vision is for everyone in our community with a life-limiting illness or bereavement to be able to access compassionate care and the support they need. We offer a diverse range of community-based services including Hospice Nursing Service, Adult Counselling, Children and Family Support Services across South Warwickshire and the surrounding areas.

The Shakespeare Hospice has six charity shops across South Warwickshire, and also an online shop, selling a variety of quality goods which have been donated by our generous supporters.

Why do you need me?

The contribution of our volunteers is invaluable to the operation and success of the Hospice. We work hard to ensure that all our volunteers are treated fairly and are given equality of opportunity.

As a Volunteer Kitchen Assistant, you will play an important role in supporting the preparation and service of food from the hospice kitchen. You will assist with cooking, food preparation, and maintaining a clean and organised environment, helping to ensure a safe, efficient, and high-quality catering and hospitality service within the hospice.

What activities will/could I be involved in?

Carry out basic food preparation tasks (e.g. washing, peeling, chopping ingredients)
Helping prepare drinks, snacks and refreshments
Support the safe and timely service of food
Preparation and cooking of food for hospice events
Keeping work surfaces and kitchen areas clean and tidy
Loading and unloading of dishwashers
Following food hygiene and health and safety procedures at all times
Assisting with cleaning tasks
Assisting with stock rotation and checking use-by dates

What skills / abilities will I need?

An interest in cooking or working in a kitchen environment
Awareness of basic food hygiene (training will be provided)
Be enthusiastic about helping a local charity which supports people with a life-limiting illness
Be trustworthy and reliable
Be polite and courteous at all times
Happy to be part of a team
Understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality
This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance check

How much time should I offer?

Volunteering hours are flexible and can be arranged to suit both your availability and the needs of the Hospice. We would welcome volunteers who can offer flexible hours to help during busier periods or for Hospice events. There is no expectation to be available at all times; any event-related or out-of-hours support will be discussed and agreed with you in advance.

Will I have an induction and training?

You will receive an induction when you start as a volunteer with the Hospice, including a tour of your base, team introductions, health and safety information and an induction training programme.

We will provide any further specialist training that you need to complete your volunteer role including food hygiene level 2.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

You will be part of a friendly team, supporting those in the community who need it most
You can grow confidence, meet new people and make new friends
You can improve your skills and work experience
We can be flexible in relation to your volunteering hours, recognising your need for holiday time, and other commitments.