What can I do to support someone facing domestic violence?

"I witnessed a disturbing act of domestic violence."

"A film about domestic violence shocked me."

"A survivor's story inspired me."

But can regular folks actually intervene on an issue that moves them?

Suparna Gupta recently spoke with gender experts Persis Sidhva and Sohini Bhattacharya about what a bystander can do to step in when domestic violence may be occurring.

Here are 3 ways to get involved:

1. Interrupt violence.

• Ring the bell, knock on the door or call the police.

• You don't have to confront the perpetrator about violence—the pause temporarily stops the violence and the aggressor knows someone is watching.

• It gives victims a chance to collect themselves, plan, and act.

2. Stand with a survivor.

• Speak to a survivor, be around, and check in regularly.

• Provide non-judgmental support to make acting or reporting easier.

• Take daunting tasks off their hands: help create a plan about housing, finances, medical help, or childcare.

• Find out about the law and legal options.

3. Make systems responsive.

• Create a pressure group with concerned citizens.

• Map local services e.g. police stations, hospitals, shelters, and child services.

• Talk to survivors to understand ground realities.

• Meet local officials in charge and talk about problems survivors face.

• Work in your neighborhood, or even across your city!