Victims commissioner for England and Wales Baroness Helen Newlove died today aged 63 after a short illness.
The Office of the Victims’ Commissioner said: ‘We are deeply saddened to share that Baroness Helen Newlove, the victims’ commissioner for England and Wales, has passed away following a short illness. Our thoughts are with her family at this difficult time.
‘Helen was a committed and passionate advocate for victims, drawing on her own experience of the criminal justice system. She was determined that all victims should be treated with compassion, decency and respect – and she consistently led by example.
‘Under her leadership, the role of victims’ commissioner was transformed – growing in stature, influence and authority. She reshaped the office into a trusted voice and genuine force for victims: one that stands firmly on their side, champions their rights, and holds the justice system to account.
‘This transformation stands as a testament to her work and will remain her enduring legacy. She will be greatly missed. We ask that the privacy of the family is respected at this time.’
Deputy prime minister and lord chancellor David Lammy said he was ‘deeply saddened’ to hear the news of Newlove’s passing who he described as an ‘extraordinary public servant’.
He added: ‘As both victims’ commissioner, and deputy speaker in the House of Lords, Helen brought unparalleled experience and dedication to her roles. She championed the rights of victims and witnesses and held agencies to account. Her leadership shaped the Victims’ Code, strengthened victims’ voices in the criminal justice system, and ensured that the Victims and Prisoners Act progressed with victims’ interests at its heart.
‘Helen was an extraordinary public servant whose life’s work and her legacy are defined by courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice. My thoughts remain with her family and her loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.’
Newlove was appointed as victims commissioner in October 2023 on an interim basis for a one-year term which was later extended to 31 December 2025. She had previously served as victims’ commissioner for six years. She became a community campaigner and activist after the murder of her husband Garry by a gang of youths outside their family home in 2007. Following his death, she campaigned to tackle anti-social behaviour and the underage and binge drinking culture. In recognition of her work she was appointed government champion for active, safer communities in 2010 and in that same year was nominated for a peerage by then prime minister David Cameron.
No comments yet