John Swinney has said he is “more determined than ever” to tackle violence against women and girls – but that everyone has a part to play if “lasting change” is to be achieved.

The First Minister made the comment amid a series of meetings with abuse survivors, frontline 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,” he said.

“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, not being believed, having their children removed from them.

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

Mr Swinney said the country has made “important progress” in recent years, with laws strengthened, investment in specialist support services, and the Government’s Equally Safe strategy.

He continued: “But the scale and persistence of violence against women and girls shows that we must go further and faster.

“This week, I met organisations on the frontline supporting women and girls affected by violence and abuse.

“Their message was clear: if we are serious about ending male violence, we must also tackle the inequality and harmful attitudes that allow it to persist.

“Continuing this engagement, next week I will meet public sector partners to identify further actions to strengthen Scotland’s response.

“These discussions will help shape the measures we take forward in the Programme for Government.

“Government has a vital role to play, but lasting change requires all of us to play our part.

“Men, in particular, must challenge sexism, confront abusive behaviour and help create a culture where every woman and girl can live free from violence, abuse and fear.”