Lorraine said, “No woman should have to put up with abuse of any kind, and the consequences can be long-lasting, especially when it occurs within the context of a relationship or family.

“Every woman deserves respect and the right to live their lives without fear. It is horrifying to think that one in five women in Scotland experiences domestic abuse at some point in their life, so I fully support this campaign.”

The GMTV presenter is one of 16 high-profile Scottish women backing an international campaign against domestic abuse, including Dundee’s Olympic double gold medallist Shirley Robertson.

The international 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence campaign, which originated from the first Women's Global Leader Institute in 1991, is an annual drive to raise awareness about domestic abuse.

Since 1991, approximately 1700 organisations in 130 countries have participated in the 16 Days Campaign, which is supported by the Scottish Executive.

Double Olympic sailing gold medallist Shirley Robertson said, “Violence of any nature is inexcusable, but domestic violence is an appalling, cowardly act.”

Shirley continued, “It is important that women in Scotland know there is confidential help from trained advisers available 24 hours a day and places they can go to seek support and refuge.”

Scotland’s deputy communities minister Johann Lamont, singer Annie Lennox, actress Dawn Steele, broadcaster Lesley Riddoch and senior business leaders have joined in adding their voices to the campaign.

Individuals and groups around the world have used the 16 Days Campaign to raise awareness about gender-based violence and strengthen local work around violence against women.

It also provides a forum in which organisers can develop and share new and effective strategies.

The Scottish Executive’s Domestic Abuse Helpline number is 0800 027 1234.

Shirley continued, “It is important that women in Scotland know there is confidential help from trained advisers available 24 hours a day and places they can go to seek support and refuge.”

Scotland’s deputy communities minister Johann Lamont, singer Annie Lennox, actress Dawn Steele, broadcaster Lesley Riddoch and senior business leaders have joined Lorraine and Shirley in adding their voices to the campaign.

Individuals and groups around the world have used the 16 Days Campaign to raise awareness about gender-based violence at local, national, regional and international levels, strengthen local work around violence against women and establishing a clear link between local and international work to end violence against women.

It also provides a forum in which organisers can develop and share new and effective strategies.

The Scottish Executive’s Domestic Abuse Helpline number is 0800 027 1234.