Milk Kitchen AssistantNHS

Job summary

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.

Job Title: Milk Kitchen Assistant

Contract Type: Fixed Term

Purpose for Fixed Term: Career break or covering a secondment backfill

Main duties of the job

This is an exciting opportunity to join our team at Southampton Children's Hospital | University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust

Helping us provide safe, high-quality nutritional support for babies and children across our hospital.

We are looking for a dedicated and organised Milk Kitchen Healthcare Assistant to join our Child Health team. This is a vital role supporting the safe preparation, storage and distribution of infant feeds and nutritional products, ensuring the highest standards of hygiene, quality and safety are maintained at all times.

Working within the Milk Kitchen, you will play an essential part in supporting clinical teams to deliver outstanding care to patients and families. Your contribution will help ensure feeds are prepared accurately and efficiently, supporting positive patient outcomes and maintaining compliance with national and local standards.

Job description

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

Preparing, storing and distributing infant feeds, nutritional products and related supplies in accordance with local policies, procedures and food safety standards.Maintaining high standards of cleanliness, infection prevention and equipment maintenance within the Milk Kitchen environment.Monitoring stock levels, ordering supplies and ensuring accurate records are maintained to support the efficient operation of the service.Working closely with nursing, dietetic and multidisciplinary teams to ensure the timely provision of feeds and nutritional products for babies and children across the hospital.What experience/skills are needed

The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate:

Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and work accurately in a busy environment.Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow procedures, standards and written instructions consistently.Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.A commitment to maintaining high standards of hygiene, cleanliness and quality, ideally gained within a healthcare, childcare, catering or similar setting.

Additional InformationThe post holder will be required to work flexibly to meet the operational needs of the service, including shifts covering the Milk Kitchen operating hours.The role is predominantly based within the Milk Kitchen and does not routinely involve direct patient care responsibilities as described within the current role profile.Employment will be subject to the successful completion of the Trust's pre-employment checks, including a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where applicable.Full training will be provided to support safe practice and competency within the role.

This is an excellent opportunity to join Southampton Children's Hospital and make a meaningful contribution to the care of babies and children by supporting the safe preparation and provision of essential nutritional feeds.

About the Role

As a Milk Kitchen Healthcare Assistant, you will be responsible for the preparation and handling of infant feeds, maintaining stock levels, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and ensuring the Milk Kitchen operates safely and efficiently. You will work closely with nursing, dietetic and clinical teams to support the nutritional needs of babies and children receiving care within the Trust.

This role is ideal for someone who is organised, reliable and takes pride in maintaining high standards. Attention to detail and the ability to follow procedures accurately are essential.

The Team

You will be part of the wider Child Health team and will work collaboratively with healthcare professionals across Southampton Children's Hospital. The role reports to the Milk Kitchen Supervisor/Designated Manager and works in partnership with nursing, dietetic and housekeeping colleagues to provide an effective and responsive service.

About You

We are looking for someone who:

Has excellent organisational and communication skills.Can work accurately and follow procedures and protocols.Is committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.Works well as part of a team and can build positive working relationships.Demonstrates reliability, flexibility and a commitment to delivering excellent service.Has experience in a healthcare, catering, nursery, childcare or similar environment (desirable but not essential).Why Join Us?

At University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, you'll be part of a supportive and inclusive team where your contribution is valued. We are committed to developing our staff and providing opportunities for learning, growth and career progression.

Join us and help make a difference every day by supporting the safe and effective care of babies and children across our hospital.

About us

As one of the largest acute teaching Trusts in England, we offer learning and development opportunities to help you achieve the career you aspire to. UHS is rated 'Good' by the CQC and in the latest national NHS Staff Survey, we were in the top 10 acute trusts for staff engagement and for staff recommending the hospital as a place to work or receive care.

We support flexible working and will consider requests taking into account the needs of the service. UHS employees are able to access a range of NHS discounts, are entitled to a minimum of 35 days paid holiday (pro rata), and we offer a generous pension scheme.

Southampton is an attractive place to live and work situated on the south coast, with an international airport and direct trains to London. The New Forest National Park and beaches of the Jurassic coast are also right on our doorstep. The city offers living costs 30% lower than London and 17 schools rated outstanding by Ofsted.

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