Jo Laidlaw brings a wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to her role supporting the hockey team in embedding equality and safeguarding practices. With a distinguished career in senior leadership across both primary and secondary school settings, Jo has worked extensively with vulnerable cohorts of children and led safeguarding initiatives at a strategic level. Her expertise spans from classroom to headship, where she has championed inclusive and supportive environments for all young people.

A nationally recognised voice in inclusive education, Jo is also an experienced keynote speaker on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), delivering talks and training across the country to support schools and organisations in developing best practice. Her ability to combine policy insight with practical, compassionate leadership makes her a trusted expert in the field.

Jo’s approach is rooted in compassion and a deep dedication to equality, ensuring every child and young person feels seen, safe, and valued. Her professional insight into safeguarding is matched by her personal passion for hockey. As a parent of three daughters who have played for Doncaster Hockey Club at various levels over many years, she understands firsthand the importance of creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive sporting environment.

Doncaster Hockey Club Chair Spencer Fearn stated "We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Jo to Doncaster Hockey Club. Her incredible expertise in safeguarding and equality, combined with her passion for our sport, makes her a perfect fit for our values of community, respect, and development. Jo will play a huge role in helping us create a club where every player feels safe, respected, and inspired to grow, both on and off the pitch."