Support services for prostitution/survival sex

Prostitution/survival sex

Survival sex refers to exchanging sexual activity for money, goods, or shelter. This is why we are moving away from using the term ‘prostitution’ when describing those involved in survival sex. If the person is under 18, this is child sexual exploitation (CSE).

Those involved in survival sex is a form of sexual exploitation within Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) because it disproportionately affects women.

Those involved survival sex can take place on the street or off-street, such as in brothels.

Perpetrators of abuse

The typical buyer of sex is usually a man in a relationship. Many believe buying sex is not “cheating” and are repeat buyers.

Women on-street and off street may also have “boyfriends” or “pimps,” who coerce them into selling sex to repay debts or fund drugs/alcohol. Abuse can be physical, emotional, or financial.

How to report suspicious activity

Tower Hamlets Police carry out regular operations against buyers of sex. You can help:

• Note registration numbers of vehicles being used to solicit people involved in survival sex
• Report specific times, areas, or buildings used for those involved in survival sex.

Contact the police with as much detail as you can.

Massage Parlours

If you suspect massage parlours are offering sexual services, report to:

• Police
  • For non-emergency matters call 101, use the online form
  • For an emergency call 999
• Tower Hamlets Council Health and Safety Licensing Team: HealthandSafety@towerhamlets.gov.uk

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Support services

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VAWG service directory

You can find lots of other useful services on the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) service directory homepage.