Police force and charity team up to improve sex worker response

A police force and a non-profit organisation have teamed up to improve the way crimes against sex workers are responded to.

Public protection officers at Nottinghamshire Police are working with Nottingham-based POW—a voluntary organisation that supports sex workers’ rights—to improve understanding and break-down barriers to reporting.

For sex workers, sexual aggression and violence are risks that come with the job. In fact, these inidividuals are 12 times more likely to die from violence at work compared to other professions. However, many are often reluctant to report crimes against them to the police.

In December, the charity’s police liaison officer visited detectives at Oxclose Lane Police Station officers to discuss ways to increase reporting, reduce victim attrition and better protect the women involved.

“Some individuals involved in sex work – particularly those working on the street – have complex needs and can be extremely vulnerable as a result.

“Many are living with the effects of substance addiction and have previously had very negative experiences of the police.

“As a result, we know they can be reluctant to come forward and then more likely to withdraw their support for prosecutions.

“We know from experience that it can also be hard to keep in contact with people who may not have a fixed address and frequently change their mobile phone number.

“As police officers we have to understand that these barriers exist and take steps to break them down, which is why this work with POW is so important.

“By working more closely together we can improve our communication with the victims, protect sex workers from harm and bring more perpetrators to justice.”

Nicole Milner, Detective Inspector of Nottinghamshire Police.

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