Community Kitchen Volunteer Lead (role could be shared)

Community Kitchen Volunteer Lead (role could be shared)

The Wheathampstead Chapel Community Hub is looking for a warm, organised and enthusiastic Volunteer to lead our much-loved monthly Community Kitchen.

Our Community Kitchen takes place on the last Tuesday of every month at the Chapel Halls in Wheathampstead, serving around 60 local people with a welcoming meal and friendly atmosphere. It is a lively, rewarding and genuinely enjoyable event supported by a fantastic team of around 15 experienced volunteers.  The aim of the Community Kitchen is to bring the community together, for a freshly cooked meal – providing nourishment to the body and heart…great company and opportunity to make new friends.  Diners contribute on a “pay what you can afford” basis.

This opportunity has arisen because our current lead, who has successfully led the Kitchen for the past four years, is moving away from the area.

What the role involves

You will help coordinate the monthly Community Kitchen event, working alongside a supportive and experienced volunteer team to:

• • plan, prepare and serve the meal 
  • coordinate volunteers 
  • help ensure a welcoming front-of-house experience 
  • oversee event set-up and clear-away 
  • maintain the budget 
  • ensure food hygiene and safety standards are followed 

The role is very well supported. Our existing cooks are happy to continue assisting with menu planning, shopping and food safety processes, so you will be joining an established and friendly team rather than starting from scratch.

Time commitment

• • Main event day: Last Tuesday of each month
  •  Approx. 1pm – 7.30pm
  • Additional administration/planning: Around 8 hours per month 

We are looking for someone who:

• Can plan menus and cook (with helpers)
  • enjoys working with people 
  • is organised and dependable 
  • can co-ordinate volunteers positively and confidently 
  • values community spirit and inclusion 
  • has good communication skills 
  • can oversee budgets and practical arrangements 

Experience in catering or event organisation would be helpful but is not essential and would suit someone with a passion for cooking.

A Food Hygiene qualification would be ideal, although training can be provided. A DBS check will be required.

What you’ll gain

• • the chance to make a real difference locally 
  • the support of a committed and experienced volunteer team 
  • a rewarding and sociable role at the heart of the community 
  • the opportunity to help continue a well-established and valued community event 

Travel expenses could be reimbursed.

For more information or an informal conversation about the role, please contact Maria Azcona on 07727 207818.