PLANS for the Government to create a Domestic Abuse Commissioner role have been welcomed with caution by a York charity.

This week, the Home Office announced a Designate Domestic Abuse Commissioner would be appointed to transform the Government's response to domestic abuse, while "standing up for victims and survivors, providing public leadership on domestic abuse concerns and driving the response to issues".

The new role would also provide recommendations to the government and local authorities and organisations "on how provisions could be improved and highlight where best practice is taking place", and look at the needs of victims and survivors from minority or marginalised groups, and children affected by domestic abuse.

Sarah Hill, chief executive officer at the Independent Domestic Abuse Service in York (IDAS), said she was pleased with the announcement, but gave it "a cautious welcome".

She said: "Obviously the role needs to be well defined, it's going to be a huge role.

"It's definitely a positive move, as it provides focus for the work, and someone with the responsibility for putting a spotlight on to the work being done and ensuring someone has oversight of the impact of the Domestic Abuse Bill, but in terms of how effective it will be, that will depend on how much resource is provided. One person working across the whole country would be stretched."

Last month, The Press reported how reports of domestic abuse offences rose by more than half last year, with 15 reported each day to North Yorkshire Police, and Sarah said the new role must work closely with local services to prove its worth.

She said: "A lot of work needs to be done on how it links to local authorities, PCCs and other services who are strapped for cash, who would say they would rather see that money go the charities. Generally though it's a positive thing as it will focus energy on that work. However, more needs to be made clear about that role looks like and how it works on a local level."

The Commissioner would create an advisory board from civil society groups, service providers, victims and experts, and a victims and survivors advisory group composed entirely of victims and survivors, who will provide advice.