Sex work is defined as the consensual exchange of sexual acts or services in exchange for money, gifts, drugs, or other forms of compensation. It is an umbrella term that includes many activities such as webcamming, escorting, stripping/exotic dancing, or selling photos or videos of a sexual nature.

Sex Work

Sex work is the consensual exchange of sexual services for money, goods, or other agreed items. It may include:

  • Engaging in sex or sexual activity with someone

  • Stripping or lap dancing

  • Pornography

  • Phone or online sexual services

  • Any sexual service provided by choice and with agreement

Key point: Sex (acts) + Consent = Sex Work

Selling sexual services is legal for adults in England, Wales and Scotland (though some related activities are not).

People may consent for a range of reasons — including financial need — and consent still remains valid as long as it is freely given.

Sexual Exploitation

Sexual exploitation occurs when consent is absent, removed, or undermined through:

  • Force

  • Threats

  • Coercion

  • Manipulation

  • Deception

  • Abuse of power or vulnerability

In exploitation, someone else benefits from or controls the sexual activity, and the individual involved does not have full, free choice.

Key points: 

  • Sex (acts) – Consent = Sexual Exploitation
  • Children cannot consent to sex work.

If you suspect that an adult or child is, or has been, sexually exploited, it's vital to report it.

For more information, visit:

www.bexley.gov.uk/vawg 

www.bexley.gov.uk/modernslavery

Sex workers can face a higher risk of catching STIs, or having an unplanned pregnancy if their work involves having sex with clients. If you are a sex worker, you may want to consider the following to protect your sexual health:

  • Condoms (including covering sex toys)  

Asking to see recent STI screen results, supplying your own condoms and sex toys, and ensuring you and your clients are symptom-free increases your chances of preventing STIs.  

People involved in sex work may face increased risk to their personal safety.

Consent is essential, and can be withdrawn by a sex worker at any time. This applies to all situations, even if the client is a ‘regular’ or has already paid in advance. 

Sex workers can take the following steps to protect themselves: 

  • Avoid working when under the influence of drugs or alcohol  

  • Carry personal safety protection (for example an alarm or self-defence spray)  

  • Always tell someone you trust where you are going, and when you expect to return, and take note of details such as car reg plates if applicable  

  • Come up with a safe word to use with your clients   

  • Trust your instincts: you have the right to refuse a job or client  

  • Abuse, harassment, and assault are not ‘occupational hazards’: they are crimes. You have the right to report them to the police, The Havens, or another organisation to get help.  

We understand that for many, leaving sex work can feel like a difficult and overwhelming journey. Whether it’s due to safety concerns, personal choice, or other reasons, the decision to exit sex work is deeply personal. We want you to know that there is support available, dedicated to helping individuals transition out of sex work safely and with dignity. 

Streetlight UK

Streetlight UK provides free, confidential, specialist support to women involved in prostitution or at risk of sexual exploitation across London, Surrey, and Sussex. Their services include 1-to-1 emotional and practical support, outreach teams, and collaborative partnerships with local agencies to reduce harm and empower women to rebuild their lives.

Click here to find the self-referral form.

You can also call the London team on 07949 074 800 (Tuesday - Friday 9am - 5pm) or email (all areas) at info@streetlight.uk.com

National Ugly Mugs freephone for sex workers needing support: 0800 464 7669

Solace in Bexley

Solace Women’s Aid in Bexley has a specialist advocate providing support to women who have experienced violence against women and girls (VAWG) and are experiencing other barriers such as being involved in prostitution. Click here for more information or call 020 3198 4659 (Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm).

National Ugly Mugs

National Ugly Mugs (NUM) is a UK-based charity offering vital support to sex workers, including confidential reporting of violence, casework support, vocational assistance, and mental health resources. They provide a non-judgmental, safe environment for sex workers to access services tailored to their needs, helping them navigate challenges and work toward personal and professional goals. NUM's services are informed by the experiences of sex workers, ensuring relevance and effectiveness. Click here to find out more, or call 0800 464 7669 to speak to a caseworker (Tuesday - Friday, 10am - 4pm).

Spectra

Spectra London have a service called The ALEX project. ALEX stands for Advocates with Lived Experience; advocates are current and former sex workers providing free and confidential support for sex workers who live or work in the London boroughs of Richmond, Wandsworth, Lambeth, Southwark, and Lewisham.  

When you contact Spectra services – Ask to speak to ALEX or use their online form to be put in touch with an advocate via their website at www.spectra-london.org.uk/sw-project/

Beyond the streets 

Beyond The Streets supports women involved in the sex industry, as well as other women or girls who have been, or are at risk of sexual exploitation. They can be contacted via telephone 0800 133 7870 (Monday – Thursday 9am – 4pm, and Friday 9am – 12:30pm), or email: support@beyondthestreets.org.uk

Click here for self-referral details.

CLASH and SHOC

Central and North-West London NHS sexual health services include CLASH and SHOC – sexual health services for people working in the sex industry. Click here for more information, or visit www.sexualhealth.cnwl.nhs.uk