Sex worker safety
Avon and Somerset Police, recognise that while sex work itself is legal in England and Wales, people involved in sex work can be at increased risk of harm, exploitation and violence.
In line with the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) National Sex Work Guidance, Avon and Somerset Police’s priorities are to:
- reduce harm
- tackle exploitation
- focus policing efforts on those who commit offences, particularly sexual violence and abuse
We will do this by ensuring your safety, wellbeing, and choices are put first.
Abuse against sex workers
People involved in sex work can experience different forms of abuse, including physical and sexual abuse, as well as online abuse such as harassment, unwanted contact and the sharing of images without consent.
Physical and sexual abuse
If you are involved in sex work, you may be at higher risk of crimes such as rape, sexual or physical abuse, and robbery. This can happen because some offenders believe these crimes will not be reported.
If you do not give consent, that decision must be respected. Saying ‘no’ always means no. Being a sex worker does not change your rights. You have the same right to control your body and to give or withhold consent as anyone else.
Whether you work online, on the streets or in premises, learn how to keep safe with these safety tips for sex workers by The Red Project.
Online abuse
If using a computer or the internet as part of sex work, there can be risks from online abuse.
This may include:
- unwanted contact by email, text or social media
- threatening or harassing messages, calls or emails
There is also a risk of images or videos being shared without consent. This is illegal. If this has happened, support is available from the Revenge Porn Helpline.
Being forced into any form of sex work is sexual exploitation. This is a type of modern slavery, and support is available.
Immediate danger
If you, or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 999.
Support for victims of sex work abuse
If you are involved in sex work, Avon and Somerset Police take a trauma‑informed, victim‑centred approach that puts your safety, wellbeing, and choices first.
Our responses are guided by:
- an understanding of vulnerability and harm
- considering factors such as personal safety, environment and broader circumstances
- working closely with partner agencies to provide coordinated support
We will support you throughout any investigation and the criminal justice process, in a way that respects your wishes and level of involvement, while focusing on identifying and pursuing those who cause harm.
Reporting abuse against sex workers
We encourage you to report any concerns or incidents, knowing that you will be listened to and supported.
You can report abuse, exploitation or violence against people involved in sex work to the police by:
- completing an online form
- visiting your local police station
Accessing support
You can access advice and support from our dedicated Sex Work Liaison Officers at Avon and Somerset Police, or through other agencies.
Dedicated Sex Work Liaison Officers
Avon and Somerset Police have dedicated Sex Work Liaison Officers who work in plain clothes.
They have specialist knowledge and understanding of sex work. Their role is to build relationships, offer advice and provide support – whether you want to report something, understand your options, or talk things through.
You can contact our Sex Work Liaison Officers by calling 101 and requesting support from one of our Sex Work Liaison Officers.
They will then contact you to arrange a suitable time to speak or meet and to support you throughout.
Other agencies
There are a number of agencies who can provide advice and support:
- One25 reaches out to women who are street sex-working in Bristol. They support them to move from crisis and trauma towards independence in the community.
- National Ugly Mugs (NUM) is a UK-wide charity working with sex workers to do research, design and deliver safety tools and to provide support services to people in adult industries.
- Beloved offer a friendly, non-judgemental and confidential service for women working in the indoor sex industry in Bristol and surrounding areas.
Further guidance and support for victims
There is also guidance and support listed on our other Victims, witnesses and offenders pages: