Tributes are pouring in for Baroness Helen Newlove, the Victims' Commissioner for England and Wales, who has died at the age of 63 following a short illness.
From Personal Tragedy to Public Service
Baroness Newlove became a dedicated and formidable campaigner against antisocial behaviour after her husband, Garry, was tragically beaten to death in front of their three daughters in 2007. Her relentless advocacy for justice and community safety earned her a peerage in 2010, allowing her to continue her work from the House of Lords.
She served two distinct terms as the Victims' Commissioner, a role she fundamentally shaped. Her first term ran from 2013 to 2019, and she was reappointed to the position in October 2023, serving until her death.
A Champion for Victims' Rights
Her office led the tributes, praising her as a "committed and passionate advocate for victims." The Justice Secretary, David Lammy, also shared his condolences, stating that "she championed the rights of victims and witnesses and held agencies to account."
Her professional legacy is substantial. Baroness Newlove was instrumental in transforming the role of the Victims' Commissioner into a powerful voice for those affected by crime. She was a driving force behind championing victims' rights, played a key role in shaping the Victims' Code, and her influence is felt in the recent Victims and Prisoners Act.
A Lasting Legacy
Baroness Helen Newlove's journey from a grieving widow to a nationally respected figure in the justice system is a testament to her strength and determination. Her work has left an indelible mark on the support and rights available to victims of crime in England and Wales, ensuring her advocacy will continue to have an impact for years to come.
