How can community health workers contribute to preventing and responding to domestic violence against women? What support do they need to carry out this role safely and effectively?

These questions informed the formative research presented by CEHAT at the SVRI Forum 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand, through the poster titled “We Should Not Be Left Alone to Support Women: The Role of Community Health Workers in Preventing and Responding to Domestic Violence Against Women in India: A Qualitative Study.”

Conducted in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, Maharashtra, the study explored community health workers' perceptions of domestic violence, their understanding of their role in responding to it, and the opportunities and challenges associated with addressing violence within their communities. The research was undertaken as part of Project UDAAN, which aims to strengthen health system responses to domestic violence against women in primary healthcare settings.

The research identified two feasible areas in which Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), India's community health workers, could contribute: raising awareness about domestic violence and facilitating referrals to appropriate support services. It also draws attention to the challenges they face, including inadequate institutional support, concerns about personal safety, and the absence of clear protocols and referral mechanisms.

By foregrounding the perspectives of ASHA workers, the research highlights the importance of building a supportive ecosystem that enables them to contribute meaningfully to violence prevention and response, while safeguarding the well-being of both women experiencing violence and the workers supporting them.

Read More