Baroness Helen Newlove, the victims’ commissioner for England and Wales, has died at the age of 63 following a short illness, her office announced on Wednesday.
Lady Newlove became a prominent campaigner against antisocial behaviour after her husband Garry was beaten to death in front of their daughters in 2007 while confronting teenage vandals. She was granted a peerage in 2010 and served as victims’ commissioner from 2013 to 2019, returning to the post in October 2023 until her death.
In a statement, her office said she was a “committed and passionate advocate for victims” who transformed the role, growing it “in stature, influence and authority”. It added: “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.”
Justice Secretary David Lammy, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, said he was “deeply saddened” by her death, describing her as an “extraordinary public servant” whose work shaped the Victims’ Code and the Victims and Prisoners Act. “Her life’s work and her legacy are defined by courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice,” he added.
The announcement was made at the start of proceedings in the House of Lords, where Lady Newlove also served as a Deputy Speaker.
