HAYLEY Chart is settling into her new role as Designated Safeguarding & Services Manager at Suffolk FA.

She was born in Maldon, Essex and grew up in Witham with her two brothers, playing football with her younger brother at home and at Witham Nomads boys, who were coached by her dad.

Hayley (pictured above) attended Rickstones Secondary School in Witham and completed her childcare qualifications at Chelmsford College.

After living to Halstead in her early 20s, Hayley moved with her partner to Ipswich, where they have recently purchased the house they have rented for the past eight years.

Hayley originally qualified as a Nursery Nurse 21 years ago and worked in a children’s day nursery in Essex – firstly in Kelvedon for three years, then Colchester for 18 years.

She worked her way up the career ladder from Room Leader, Deputy Manager, Nursery Manager and finally Operational Area Manager, overseeing and supporting the three sites for the company.

Hayley has supported many children and their families over the years, not to mention staff members with their personal and professional development.

During the past 12 years she was also the company’s Safeguarding Children Officer.

After achieving everything she could in her childcare career, including gaining a degree through the Open University, Hayley made the decision to look for a new challenge.

She said: “Having worked in childcare for the past 21 years I have undertaken a lot of Safeguarding Children work, including being the Designated Person for Safeguarding for the past 12 years.

“This, along with my passion for football attracted me to this role – combining both my professional and personal strengths. To be honest, when I saw the job advertised I thought this was made for me!”

“I am very much looking forward to contributing to the great work of Suffolk FA with regards to Safeguarding. It is important that all involved in the game that we love, are able to enjoy it in safe, fun and inclusive environments.”

 Suffolk FA Chief Executive Richard Neal said: “I’m delighted to welcome Hayley to the team, following a rigorous and competitive recruitment process to fill the shoes vacated by Darryn Marsh in November 2021.

“Hayley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from educational settings which will enhance our safeguarding work in particular.

“The Designated Safeguarding & Services Manager position Hayley takes up is an incredibly important one for the organisation as we seek to continue our drive to ensure provide safe, inclusive and respectful experiences across all football environments.

“Please continue to contact Suffolk FA via safeguarding@suffolkfa.com for all safeguarding matters.”