After university, Hayes worked as a town planner. She became managing partner of her own town planning company, Urban Practitioners, before becoming a partner at London architectural practice Allies and Morrison.[5]
Before being elected as an MP, Hayes was elected as a Councillor for the college ward of Southwark Council[6] in 2010 and in 2014.[7][8] Following her election as an MP in 2015 she held both roles for 10 months before resigning as a Councillor in March 2016 to focus on her Parliamentary duties.[9]
She supported Remain in the EU referendum in June 2016 and voted against the triggering of Article 50 in February 2017.[14]
At the snap 2017 general election, Hayes was re-elected as MP for Dulwich and West Norwood with an increased vote share of 69.6% and an increased majority of 28,156.[15][16]
In 2018, Hayes criticised the closure of two Royal Mail delivery offices in her constituency.[17]
Hayes was again re-elected at the 2019 general election, with a decreased vote share of 65.5% and a decreased majority of 27,310.[18]
Hayes was reselected in June 2024 as the Labour candidate for Dulwich and West Norwood at the 2024 general election.[20]
Personal life
Hayes is married to Ben Jupp; the couple have two children.[3] Her sister-in law is Rachel Jupp, editor of the BBC current affairs series, Panorama.[21]