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Schools play a key role in tackling domestic violence, according to Margaret Curran, minister for social justice in the Scottish parliament.

She made her comments when announcing a new school-focused initiative at a conference hosted by the executive's domestic violence prevention working group.

Curran, who chairs the National Group to Address Domestic Abuse in Scotland, said: "Prevention work in schools is one of the most important ways we have to influence the attitudes and behaviour of future generations. Getting over to young people that relationships should be based on equality and respect will have a significant impact on how they respond to partners."

The executive has commissioned a paper on tackling domestic abuse, With All Due Respect, which is to be given a key place in the national debate on education.

Pupils from Carrick Academy in Ayr and James Gillespie's High School in Edinburgh also presented powerful messages about domestic abuse using artwork and statements from children in refuges.

One child living in a women's aid refuge in South Ayrshire said: "They can catch you for not having a TV licence, but they can't catch you for doing this to another human being. My mum has no life."

- With All Due Respect is at www.Itscotland.com