Headteachers are being urged to introduce regular discussions on domestic violence to help pupils who suffer from family problems.

The scheme is supported by the Darlington Domestic Violence Forum and the childen's charity, the NSPCC.

Clare Seymour, from the Darlington Domestic Violence Forum, said it was vital that youngsters knew how to access help and support.

It's absolutely crucial that young people have the opportunity to discuss this issue openly and freely

Eamon Farris, headteacher

Ms Seymour told BBC Radio Cleveland: "We really feel it is important for domestic violence to be on the school curriculum.

"Often school is a very safe place for young people."

The idea has received backing from headteachers in the town and, if approved, could become one of the first such schemes in the UK.

Headteacher Eamon Farris told BBC Radio Cleveland: "It's absolutely crucial that young people have the opportunity to discuss this issue openly and freely.

'No excuse'

"Teachers are the people they will actually talk things through with. They need to have formalised opportunities to do that as well as informal ones.

"Through education, children realise that domestic violence is part of growing up, it happens to lots of people. It is OK to talk about it and look at ways it can be resolved."

Ms Seymour said their key message to young people was not to blame themselves for domestic violence.

"Domestic violence is not young people's responsibility.

"They need to know they can get help and there are places for them to turn."

"A lot of young people say they do not know what is normal. We say there are alternatives to violence, there is never an excuse for domestic violence."