Volunteering Opportunity: Wheathampstead Community Kitchen Lead with Wheathampstead Chapel Community Hub

Wheathampstead Community Kitchen seeks a volunteer Kitchen lead to plan, prepare and cook dinner (with a team of volunteers) for approximately 60 people on the last Tuesday of the month. Food prep from 1pm, dinner served at 6pm, finish at 7.30pm.

Opportunity Type: Long-term Commitment

District: St Albans

Start Date: 31/05/2027
End Date: 15/02/2028

Location: Indoor

Time of day: Weekday Afternoons

Practical Considerations: A Food Hygiene qualification would be ideal, although training can be provided.

A DBS check will be required.

Requirements: Relevant qualification or training, Will require a criminal record check (DBS), Own vehicle or access to a vehicle

Suitable for: 18 – 25 year olds

Suitable for volunteers interested in: Children, Families & Family Support, Food Poverty, Nutrition & Food Banks , Older People, Voluntary & Community Action

Does this opportunity provide wheelchair access?: Yes

Full Description:
The Wheathampstead Chapel Community Hub is looking for a warm, organised and enthusiastic Volunteer to lead our monthly Community Kitchen which takes place on the last Tuesday of every month at the Chapel Halls in Wheathampstead at 6pm. We usually serve around 60 local people with a welcoming hot meal and friendly atmosphere.

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:

o plan, prepare and serve the meal
o coordinate volunteers
o help ensure a welcoming front-of-house experience
o oversee event set-up and clear-away
o maintain the budget
o 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

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

We are looking for someone who:

o Can plan menus and cook (with helpers)
o enjoys working with people
o is organised and dependable
o can co-ordinate volunteers positively and confidently

o values community spirit and inclusion
o has good communication skills
o 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.