Baroness Newlove, renowned for her advocacy in crime victims’ rights following the tragic murder of her husband by three teenagers, has passed away after a brief illness.
The 63-year-old peer served as the Victims’ Commissioner across two terms starting in 2013.
Initially recognized as Helen Newlove, she gained national attention in 2007 after the brutal murder of her husband, Garry.
Garry was killed in front of their 12-year-old daughter after confronting a group of teenagers who were vandalizing his wife’s car while intoxicated on alcohol and cannabis.
The nation was appalled by the crime committed by Adam Swellings, 19, Stephen Sorton, 17, and Jordan Cunliffe, 16, who brutally attacked the father of three, delivering fatal kicks to his head in Warrington, Cheshire.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy paid tribute to Baroness Newlove, praising her as an ‘extraordinary public servant’ whose life’s work was marked by ‘courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice.’
In the wake of the crime that had so deeply affected her own family, 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
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
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.
Baroness Newlove was also a deputy speaker in the House of Lords.
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.
Baroness Newlove pictured taking her seat in the House of Lords in July 2010
Baroness Helen Newlove leaving the Palace of Westminster with daughters Danielle, Zoe and Amy after becoming a Conservative peer in 2010
‘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.’
Mr 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.’
