- Claire Waxman named as next
Victims' Commissioner for England and Wales
- New Commissioner to serve as
independent voice for victims and witnesses
- Delivering justice for victims at
heart of Government's Plan for Change
Victims and witnesses' interests will be represented by Claire
Waxman OBE, who has today (Thursday 4 September) been appointed
the next Victims' Commissioner for England and Wales.
Ms Waxman has an extensive track record of supporting victims and
championing their interests.
In her current role as London's first Independent Victims'
Commissioner, she chaired the capital's Victims Board to put
survivors' voices at the centre of the Mayor of London's Police
and Crime Plan, worked with the Metropolitan Police to improve
their services for victims and tirelessly campaigned for greater
support for everyone affected by stalking.
As Victims' Commissioner, Ms Waxman will draw upon her experience
as an unwavering advocate for victims' interests to serve as an
independent voice for witnesses and survivors of crime.
Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary, , said:
“The Victims' Commissioner is an invaluable role that promotes
victims' interests in the justice system.
“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.”
Claire Waxman said:
"It is a true honour to be appointed as the next Victims'
Commissioner for England and Wales.
“Over the years, I have worked tirelessly to champion the voices
of victims, survivors, and bereaved families - ensuring they are
heard, better protected and supported, and that their experiences
help to shape meaningful change across the justice system.
“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 advocate for all victims and drive forward
the much-needed progress that victims deserve."
The role of Victims' Commissioner is vital to delivering justice
for victims as part of the Government's Plan for Change. The
Victims and Courts Bill, which is currently going through
Parliament, strengthens the powers of the Victims' Commissioner.
Under new laws, the Commissioner will be able to act in
individual cases that raise systemic issues to ensure lessons are
learned to benefit all victims and witnesses, including those
affected by antisocial behaviour.
Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women
and Girls, Alex-Davies Jones said:
“I'd like to sincerely thank Baroness , our departing Victims'
Commissioner, for her service as a staunch advocate for victims.
I look forward to working with Claire who I know will bring
experience, passion and empathy to this vital role.”
Ms Waxman will work independently to promote victims' and
witnesses' interests, encourage good practice in their treatment
and keep the operation of the Victims' Code under review.
Baroness said:
“I am delighted that Claire Waxman will be my successor as
Victims' Commissioner. Having worked together for years, I know
firsthand that her experience as an unwavering voice for victims
in London will make her a powerful advocate for change on the
national stage.
“I am proud of the work we have done to place the experiences of
victims at the heart of the justice system, and I am confident
Claire will build on this work with her passion and dedication. I
wish her all the very best as she begins her term in the new
year.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
- The Victims' Commissioner was
appointed through an open and fair process.
- Ms Waxman will assume the role on 1
January, 2026.
