Baroness Newlove, who became a leading campaigner for crime victims’ rights after her husband was murdered by three youths, has died after a short illness.
The 63-year-old peer had been Victims’ Commissioner for two terms since 2013.
As Helen Newlove, she rose to national prominence in 2007 following the senseless murder of her husband, Garry.
He was murdered in front of his daughter, then aged just 12, after he caught a group of youths vandalising his wife’s car whilst they were drunk and high on cannabis in 2007.
Adam Swellings, 19, Stephen Sorton, 17, and Jordan Cunliffe, 16, ganged up on the father, repeatedly kicking him in his head until he died in Warrington, Cheshire.
Baroness Newlove campaigned for victims of anti-social behaviour to be taken more seriously.
She was nominated for a peerage by then Prime Minister David Cameron in May 2010.
Baroness Newlove, who has died, pictured for the Daily Mail in 2020
As a peer she took on took on a role as a government ‘champion’ and later served as the Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales from 2013 to 2019.
She was reappointed to another stint in the same role in 2023 and was due to step down at the end of this year.
Garry Newlove, 47, was kicked to death by a gang of youths outside his own home in 2007 – a shocking crime which led his widow, Helen, to become a leading campaigner for victims’ rights
In a statement, 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.
‘As well as Victims’ Commissioner, Helen was a dear friend and a respected colleague. She will be greatly missed.’
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, who is also Justice Secretary, said: ‘I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Baroness Helen Newlove.
‘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.’
Mr lammy added: ‘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.’
