Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster has today announced the appointment of Natalie Queiroz MBE as the region’s new Victims’ Advocate.
Natalie, a survivor of a horrific attempted murder in 2016, when she was repeatedly stabbed while 36 weeks pregnant, brings a unique and powerful perspective to the role.
Natalie’s personal experience of surviving an attempted murder, navigating the criminal justice system and campaigning for the rights and welfare of victims and survivors, provides her with an unparalleled understanding of the challenges faced by victims of crime. Her commitment and resilience to supporting others make her an exceptional advocate for those adversely affected by crime in the West Midlands.
The Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster, said: “I am pleased to announce the appointment of Natalie Queiroz as my Victims’ Advocate.
“The rights and welfare of victims and survivors must always be at the forefront of policing and the wider criminal justice system.
“Natalie’s determination and strength, in the face of unimaginable adversity and trauma, is truly inspiring.”
The PCC added: “Her lived experience will be invaluable in ensuring that the voices of victims and survivors are not only heard, but are acted upon and that their needs are prioritised within policing and the wider criminal justice system.
“I am confident that Natalie will be a powerful champion for victims and survivors across the West Midlands and I am looking forward to working with her, to prioritise the rights and welfare of victims and survivors.”
In her role as Victims’ Advocate, Natalie will:
- Be a strong voice for victims, survivors, and witnesses of crime in the West Midlands.
- Identify and report on potential improvements to the victim’s experience within the criminal justice system.
- Ensure victims’ voices are heard at a strategic level to influence service development.
- Provide timely expertise and advice to the PCC, Chief Executive, and staff on victim needs.
- Work with the PCC’s Advisory Panel to inform policy and strategic proposals.
- Ensure a regional, multi-agency approach to victim support.
- Support the PCC in holding West Midlands Police to account and challenging other agencies.
Newly appointed Victims’ Advocate, Natalie Queiroz, said: “I am honoured to be appointed as the Victims’ Advocate for the West Midlands.
“My own experience combined with the vast experience I have gained these last six years working with vulnerable young people and adult domestic abuse survivors, has shown me just how important it is, that there is a strong voice for the rights and welfare of victims, so as to ensure that they receive the help and support they need.
“I am committed to working tirelessly with the Police and Crime Commissioner and his team, to improve the experience of – and outcomes for – victims within the criminal justice system and to ensure that their voices are not only heard, but listened to and acted upon.”
The appointment of the Victims’ Advocate underlines the PCC’s commitment to putting the rights and welfare of victims at the heart of the criminal justice system in the West Midlands.
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