The Key Unlock Potential (TKUP), is a charity that helps people rebuild their lives after leaving prison. We are creating a safe workspace in the community, allowing individuals to establish routines, acquire new skills, and regain confidence. Acting as a bridge between prison, rehabilitation, and employment, TKUP aims to break the cycle of reoffending.

In partnership with the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and HMP Bristol, we have set up a community café that is staffed by recently released individuals from HMP Bristol and is serving “food with conviction”: simple, fresh homemade meals and drinks.

Supported by The Restore Trust, we also provide training, employability skills, and follow-on advice for the staff on work placements, with a view to The Key Café becoming a new model for rehabilitation and resettlement, benefiting people with lived experience of prison in Bristol, and in communities nationwide.

THE ROLE:

We are looking for an experienced and reliable Food Lead/ Chef to take ownership of our busy and growing food and breakfast service. This is a key role within the cafe, ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering high-quality food consistently.

This role will involve supporting our beneficiaries in developing practical, work-based skills within a real working environment. A genuine commitment to our charity’s mission and values is essential.

ABOUT YOU

• Proven experience as a breakfast chef or in a similar fast-paced kitchen role

• Ability to work independently and lead a breakfast/food service

• Strong organisational skills and ability to prep efficiently

• Calm and focused under pressure, especially during peak periods

• Passion for fresh, high-quality food and attention to detail

• A team player with a positive, can-do attitude

• YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepare and cook a high-quality breakfast and food menu items during busy service periods

• Take full responsibility for the breakfast offering, ensuring consistency and presentation standards are maintained

• Carry out daily food preparation ahead of service

• Manage stock levels for breakfast items and support ordering where required

• Maintain a clean, organised, and efficient kitchen workspace

• Work closely with front-of-house to ensure smooth service

• Support with menu ideas and continuous improvement of our food offerings

WHAT WE OFFER: 

• Competitive hourly rate (£14.50 – £15.50 depending on experience)

• A supportive and friendly working environment

• Consistent working days with a strong and growing customer base

• Free meal allowance on shift and staff discount available.

• Cycle to work scheme.

• Mental health support.

• Personal development through qualifications. 

How to apply 

If you’re passionate about delivering great breakfast food and want to be part of a growing café with a great cause at its heart, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your C.V. with a brief cover letter to Suzanne Thompson. 

This role is open to applications from all backgrounds. We are committed to equity, acceptance, and inclusion, and provide everyone who works with us the opportunity to unlock their potential. The more diverse our team, the better our charity, and delivery of our aim to help people successfully transition from prison back to their families, to their communities and back into wider society. Given our charitable objectives, we also especially welcome applications from people with lived experience of the transition from prison to meaningful employment.