Catering Assistant; Patient services

Vacancies Catering Assistant (Patient meals services)

Working within the Catering Department, the post holder will be required to support the Patient Meal Service under appropriate supervision and in accordance with established policies, procedures, and guidelines.

Assist with the loading, transportation, and delivery of meal trolleys throughout the hospital, ensuring food is served safely, at the correct temperature, and on time.

Prepare salads and fresh produce in line with food hygiene standards, including washing, cutting, portioning, and presentation requirements.

Work within the main kitchen wash-up area, ensuring crockery, utensils, and kitchen equipment are cleaned and sanitised to required standards.

Provide food and beverage services across all ward areas as required, supporting patient meal delivery, refreshments, and special dietary needs.

Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and infection control at all times, in line with Trust policies and food safety legislation.

Ensure a professional and courteous approach when interacting with patients, visitors, and staff.

For more information on the Job Description and Responsibilities please click the link below.

More detail about the role

The post holder will be required to work both on the wards and within the Patient Meal Service kitchen, supporting the delivery of a high-quality catering service to patients.

Responsibilities include serving and delivering all food and beverage requirements to patients on the wards, ensuring meals are provided in a timely, safe, and courteous manner.

The post holder will be required to load, transport, and return meal trolleys, ensuring correct handling, temperature control, and food safety standards are maintained at all times.

Associated cleaning duties will be undertaken, including cleaning of trolleys, equipment, work areas, and ward pantries in line with infection control and food hygiene policies.

The post holder is expected to demonstrate excellent organisational and communication skills, working effectively as part of a team and independently when required.

The ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment is essential, while consistently delivering a high standard of customer care and a compassionate, patient-focused service.

Working Pattern:30 hours per week.

Working 2 out of 3 weekends - hours are 10:30-6.30 on wards or if in kitchen 8-4pm and 12-8pm

Interview Date:Week of the 19th January 2026

For further information please contact: Natasha Faber, Patients Meal Service Manager on

As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust
and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.

Stretching across Northern, Eastern and Mid Devon, we have a workforce of over 15,000 staff, making us the largest employer in Devon. Our core services, which we provide to more than 615,000 people, cover more than 2,000 square miles across Devon, while some of our specialist services cover the whole of the peninsula, extending our reach as far as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

We deliver a wide range of emergency, specialist and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford). Alongside our two acute hospitals, we provide integrated health and social care services across a variety of settings, including community inpatient…