Reverend Clive Foster MBE, NTU Multi-Faith Manager is appointed as the government’s first Windrush Commissioner
The Home Secretary has appointed Reverend Clive Foster, NTU’s Multi-Faith Manager as the first Windrush Commissioner – as part of the government’s commitment to achieve justice for victims of the Home Office Windrush scandal.
By Sarah McLeod | Published on 18 June 2025
Categories: Press office;
The announcement comes ahead of Windrush Day this Sunday (22 June), marking the 77th anniversary of the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush to Britain and the community’s extraordinary contribution to this country.
The Commissioner, a newly created role on a three-year term, will provide independent oversight of the government’s work to address the Home Office Windrush scandal and ensure the voices of victims remain at the heart of efforts to deliver justice.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:
“The story of the Windrush generations is woven into the fabric of our nation and this government is absolutely determined to right the wrongs they suffered at the hands of the Home Office.
“This is why I am delighted to welcome Reverend Clive Foster as our new Windrush Commissioner. His deep understanding through his own connections and dedicated community work makes him the perfect champion for those affected by this historic injustice.
"I look forward to working closely with Reverend Foster as we continue our vital work to rebuild trust and deliver the justice that the Windrush generations so rightfully deserve.”
Clive is Multi-Faith Manager and Executive Dean EDI at NTU as well as a senior pastor at the Pilgrim Church in Nottingham. With personal connections to the Windrush generations through his parents who migrated to the UK from Jamaica in 1959. Clive brings both lived experience and professional expertise to the role. He is the founder of the Nottingham Windrush Support Forum and serves as Vice Chair of the Windrush National Organisation where he volunteers.
Windrush Commissioner Reverend Clive Foster MBE said:
"I'm honoured to take on the role of Windrush Commissioner. I'm committed to ensuring justice is delivered for the Windrush generations - people who have given so much to this country and deserve better than the treatment they have received.
"The injustices they faced must never be repeated, and that requires more than words; it requires cultural change, accountability, and action. My aim is to deliver change that the Windrush generations can see and feel in their everyday lives, particularly in how the Windrush Status and Compensation Schemes operate.
"I will carry out this role independently, without fear or favour, while creating a constructive relationship with government where challenge is welcomed and scrutiny leads to specific, transparent improvements."
Professor Sarah Speight, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost at NTU said:
“This is a prestigious appointment for Clive, reflecting his commitment and dedication to helping the Windrush Generations receive justice as well as showcasing the valuable contribution they have made to this country.
“A valued member of the NTU community, Clive is a familiar face on campus, and his passion for supporting colleagues and students of all faiths and none is unrivalled. We are truly lucky to have a colleague such as Clive, and we have no doubt that he will continue to play a pivotal role both at NTU and within Government.”
Clive Foster was awarded an MBE for services to the Windrush generation and broader community in the New Year Honours in 2022.