JOHN SWINNEY pledged today to to tackle violence against women and girls but said everyone has a part to play if lasting change is to be achieved.

Scotland’s First Minister made the comments in a series of meetings with abuse survivors, front-line organisations and public-sector bodies.

He said while the government has a vital role to perform, everybody has to play their part if the inequality and harmful attitudes that allow violence to persist are to be challenged.

Mr Swinney called on men in particular to help create a safe culture for women and girls by challenging sexism and confronting abusive behaviour.

“Violence against women and girls is completely unacceptable. There can be no excuses for it.

“Having listened to courageous survivors such as Danielle MacDonald, I am more determined than ever to use my leadership as First Minister to help drive the change Scotland needs.

“For every woman who speaks out, there are many more who suffer in silence, fearful of the consequences of disclosing an escalation in their partner’s abuse.

“We must ensure services work together to identify abuse earlier, support survivors and hold perpetrators to account,” he said.

The First Minister said the country has made what he called important progress in recent years, with laws strengthened, investment in specialist support services, and the government’s “Equally Safe” strategy.

Mr Swinney said that the message front-line organisations supporting women and girls affected by violence and abuse was clear if Scots are serious about ending male violence and pledged to work with public-sector partners to identify further actions to strengthen Scotland’s response.