At Places for People, we hire People, not numbers! So, if you like the sound of one of our jobs, please apply - you could be just who we're looking for! Of course, experience and track record are important, but we're more interested in hiring someone that embodies our People Promises. That's someone that does the right thing, is enthusiastic and motivated to grow, believes in Community spirit, is respectful and enjoys their work. As the UK's leading Social Enterprise, we don't discriminate based on any protected attribute. In fact, we're dedicated to creating inclusive and thriving Communities for both our Customers and Employees.   

So, what are you waiting for? Join a Community that cares about you!

More about the role

Based out of our two Preston offices (South Rings from Spring 2025, and currently Group Support, Centre Preston) we are looking for Receptionist /Catering Assistant to join our team.  Providing a quality reception and catering service you will support our staff.

You will be the first point of contact for customers and staff, welcoming all internal /external visitors to the office. You will answer incoming calls and transfer to the appropriate person around the business in a prompt and efficient manner to reduce waiting times for callers.

As part of your catering duties, you will work with external suppliers to order and prepare buffets requested by staff, accommodating any dietary requirements. You will also have the responsibility of performing several other tasks, such as clearing away after meetings and ensuring the kitchen/catering facilities are kept in line with health legislation.

More about you

To be considered for this role we would prefer reception experience and have a basic knowledge of catering, training will be provided for Food Handling Certificate, to the successful candidate.  You should also have clerical or administrative skills with the ability to prioritise requests and workload.

Customer Service and strong communication skills are essential to success in this role.  You will have a positive and friendly manner and act as an ambassador of spirit for the Group.

For more information please download our job profile available on our website.

The benefits

Our ambition gives you all the challenge you could wish for and that is why we can offer you tangible and exciting career progression in a diverse and pioneering business.  

Here people can flourish, thrive, better themselves and work in fantastic communities with inspirational colleagues and customers.

We know that there is always more we can do to make you smile, that is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package to help colleagues save money or make their lives a little bit easier; from a pension, generous holiday pay, training, sick pay, and free or discounted gym membership – to a wealth of extra perks including interest-free loans for colleagues, discounts and offers on thousands of retailers, restaurants and leisure outlets and much more.

What's next?

If you meet the criteria and are ready to make the next step in your career then apply following our simple 5 minute application process, upload a CV and a supporting statement which demonstrates how you meet the requirements of the role. If you have any questions please email the recruitment team recruitment@placesforpeople.co.uk 

If you are a Places for People customer and you're looking for support with your application, please contact our skills and employment team on skillsemployment@placesforpeople.co.uk.

Please note that we may bring the closing date forward, if we receive a large number of quality applications. If you are interested in this role we would advise applying immediately to avoid disappointment.

If you are using a mobile device such as an iPad then ensure your CV is stored in the cloud, we currently support Google Drive, OneDrive and Dropbox.

If you are a recruitment agency please note we operate a PSL and do not take cold calls