In October 2012, it was announced that Hardwick had landed a role in ITV soap "Emmerdale". She was to play Rhona's wild friend from college Vanessa Woodfield, who had been tipped to shake up life at the vets' surgery. Vanessa was billed as a "self-assured party girl" who would be "like a breath of fresh air" when she arrived at the vets' practice. Hardwick commented: "As a local girl and a fan of the show, "Emmerdale" is my dream job. After only two days, I am starting to feel at home already and Vanessa is such a fun character. I can't wait to see what's in store for her."