Hayley Denise Coles

Cabinet Culture & Communities Leader @Staffordshire County Council

GB

Appointed as a Cabinet Member to lead the Communities and Culture portfolio, I am responsible for setting and delivering the strategic direction that helps shape Staffordshire as a confident, connected, and forward-facing county.This role places culture and community at the heart of long-term planning — not just as standalone sectors, but as enablers of wider priorities including safety, learning, transformation, and inclusive growth.Key responsibilities: • Leading strategic development across community engagement, cultural life, local heritage, and identity. • Using libraries, archives, museums, and the arts to support education, skills development, and lifelong learning. • Supporting local initiatives that contribute to social cohesion, and civic pride. • Driving digital and service transformation within community and cultural services to improve access, relevance, and long-term sustainability. • Promoting innovation through digital platforms, tools, and storytelling to enhance how Staffordshire’s cultural assets are experienced and shared. • Working collaboratively across council portfolios to ensure that community and cultural priorities align with broader outcomes, including economic growth and regeneration. • Championing Staffordshire’s distinct sense of place and heritage to help attract investment and unlock community potential. • Partnering with local authorities, creatives, and voluntary organisations to deliver meaningful, place-based impact. • Representing the council at local and national levels to influence cultural and community policy.