More than 200 women sell sex on Sheffield’s streets. The majority of female street sex workers are addicted to drugs and/or alcohol and sell sex not only to fund their own drug use but more often to fund their partner’s drug use.

Street sex workers may experience higher levels of violence not only from their partners, but they are at considerable risk of rape and assaults from their clients.

If you are a street sex worker experiencing domestic abuse

If you are a street sex worker you will know how isolating and dangerous this work can be. You may feel this is your only choice to earn money without resorting to crime which could result in a criminal record and/or a custodial sentence.

Drugs and alcohol all increase the risk of experiencing domestic abuse. Leaving violent partners is dangerous for all women, but even more so if your partner is dependant on you to provide their drugs. Street sex work, drug and alcohol use and domestic abuse can all impact on your health, confidence and self-esteem, making it even more difficult to access services and discuss your situation.

You can get support from people who will:

• understand your experiences
• recognise how strong and resourceful you have had to be
• prioritise your needs
• support you to make the changes to your life you want.

Organisations

Sheffield DACT Helpline: 0808 808 2241

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Sheffield Working Women’s Opportunities Project (SWWOP): 0114 275 2040

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Sheffield Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Service: 0114 2618990