Sex workers’ experiences of criminal justice in the United Kingdom: Improving responses to sexual violence and harms

Abstract

While there is no attempt here to connect commercial sex with violence intrinsically, types of harms and violence are often experienced by those working in the sex industry. Yet, sex workers often have negative perceptions and experiences of the criminal justice systems that should exist to help protect and deliver justice to all victims/survivors. The following analyses come from a mixed-methods, cross-national study exploring sexual violations and harms in direct sex work. This article focuses specifically on UK sex workers’ experiences of justice from deciding whether or not to report to the police, criminal investigations and court hearings. Findings highlight the specific barriers faced by sex workers in their pursuit of justice via the judiciary system. Some positive experiences and outcomes through criminal proceedings are also reported and provide opportunities to learn from best practice.