[4] Hayes made her professional and television debut in BBC drama Lilies, playing the lead role of Ruby Moss.
[1] She has made guest appearances in Holby City, The Commander, Casualty, Inspector George Gently[5] and four episodes of Doctors.
Hayes' film credits include Sparkle (2007), Nowhere Boy (2009), Kicks (2009), playing the lead role of Nicole,[6] and Rowan Joffé's remake of Brighton Rock (2010).
[5] She was selected for the 2009 Trailblazer showcase, an annual initiative at the Edinburgh International Film Festival highlighting new talent, for her performance in Kicks.
[7] She has appeared in two series of the Channel 4 period drama The Mill for which she was nominated for the Bafta award for Leading Actress.