Support services for prostitution
Prostitution / Survival Sex
Prostitution, or survival sex, is the exchange of sexual activity for money, goods, or shelter. If the person is under 18, this is child sexual exploitation (CSE). Prostitution is a form of sexual exploitation within Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) because it disproportionately affects women.
Women involved in prostitution are 12 times more likely to be killed than other women and are frequent targets of physical and sexual violence, including rape. This is why we do not refer to prostitution as “sex work.”
Prostitution 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 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 prostitution.
- Report specific times, areas, or buildings used for prostitution or 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:
Tower Hamlets Council Health and Safety Licensing Team: HealthandSafety@towerhamlets.gov.uk
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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.