Appointment follows Government reshuffle
Claire Waxman OBE has been appointed as the next Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, taking on the role of independent advocate for victims and witnesses across the justice system.
The announcement comes just days before a Cabinet reshuffle that saw David Lammy become Justice Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister, replacing Angela Rayner as Deputy and Shabana Mahmood as Justice Secretary. Mahmood, now Home Secretary, welcomed Waxman’s appointment before the handover.
Waxman, currently first Independent Victims’ Commissioner, has been a high-profile campaigner for the rights of survivors.
She has worked closely with the Metropolitan Police to improve victim services, chaired London’s Victims Board, and played a leading role in shaping support for victims of stalking.
A national platform for victims’ voices
Waxman will take up the post on 1 January 2026, succeeding Baroness Helen Newlove, who has served as Interim Commissioner. The role carries new powers under the forthcoming Victims and Courts Bill, allowing the Commissioner to act in cases where systemic failings are identified, including those involving antisocial behaviour.
Speaking after her appointment, Waxman said: “It is a true honour to be appointed. Over the years I have worked tirelessly to champion the voices of victims, survivors and bereaved families. At this critical time, as we seek to deliver swifter justice and more accessible support, I look forward to continuing my work on a national scale to drive forward the much-needed progress victims deserve.”
Praise and expectations
Justice Secretary praised Waxman’s track record: “Claire’s accomplishments as London’s Independent Victims’ Commissioner more than qualify her for this role. I have every faith she will be a dedicated and steadfast voice for victims and witnesses.”
Baroness Newlove welcomed the appointment of her successor, describing Waxman as “a powerful advocate for change on the national stage.”
Alex Davies-Jones, Minister for Victims, also thanked Newlove for her years of advocacy and said she looked forward to working with Waxman.
Scrutiny on delivery
The appointment comes at a sensitive time for the Government. The reshuffle has prompted renewed questions about continuity in justice policy, and victims’ groups have been pressing for clearer action on delays, backlogs and failures in victim care.
While campaigners have broadly welcomed Waxman’s appointment, some remain sceptical about whether new legislation will be matched with resources. The Victims’ Commissioner operates independently but relies on government departments to act on recommendations.
For victims of crime in England and Wales, Waxman’s arrival in January will be closely watched. Her success may hinge not only on her ability to amplify voices but also on whether ministers in a reshaped Cabinet are prepared to deliver the systemic changes long promised.
