Baroness Helen Newlove, known for her advocacy for victims and witnesses’ rights, has passed away following a brief illness. Newlove, who bravely fought against antisocial behavior after her husband was fatally attacked by a group of troublemakers in front of their family, was a well-respected figure in the realm of victim support.

David Lammy, the Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, expressed deep sorrow over her passing, praising her as an exceptional public servant characterized by courage, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to justice. In 2007, Newlove’s husband Garry was tragically kicked to death by drunken youths as they vandalized their property in Cheshire.

Baroness Newlove actively campaigned against antisocial behavior and excessive drinking following her husband’s murder, leading to her appointment as Government Champion for Active, Safer Communities in 2010. She continued her advocacy for victims as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Lords in 2021 and served as Victims’ Commissioner from 2013 to 2019.

Her tireless efforts to elevate the voices of victims and bring about positive change in the justice system were widely recognized. Both Lammy and former Prime Minister David Cameron paid tribute to her remarkable dedication to serving the community and advocating for victims of crime.

The office of the Victims’ Commissioner released a statement mourning her loss, emphasizing Newlove’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that all victims are treated with compassion, decency, and respect. Her legacy as a staunch advocate for victims and a transformative leader in victim support will endure, leaving a lasting impact on the justice system and those she championed.