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  • sex-work-covid-19
  1. Coronavirus
  2. Sex Work & COVID-19

Sex Work & COVID-19

We are in the midst of a pandemic that requires everyone to stay at home and avoid unnecessary contact. People who do not comply with Government regulations risk a fine or prosecution.  

People who engage in sex work may have lost their main or only source of income. This can leave people incredibly vulnerable and with severe financial difficulties. The nature of sex work means that many people can’t access the support services that exist. Sex workers are one of the groups most marginalised and impacted by this crisis. We believe that sex workers should be recognised as a group that are unfairly stigmatised and face considerable health inequalities. Service accessibility can be challenging in normal circumstances, but this pandemic makes it especially difficult for sex workers.  

This FAQ is a brief overview of some of the common questions asked by people who engage in sex work during the COVID-19 pandemic, and is adapted from resources produced by our friends at Umbrella Lane. Find our more at their website here. 

I’m a sex worker. What rules am I being told to follow?

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The UK Government Guidelines are currently the same for everybody:  

You must stay home except to travel: 

  • to work where it is considered essential or you are a Key Worker
  • to purchase essential food and medicines,  
  • for one instance of outdoor exercise a day close to your home.  

You must stay 2 metres or more from other people when you are outside, and even indoors if you are living with somebody having to self-isolate or who is otherwise vulnerable.  

The sooner we all heed precautions and adapt our behaviours, the more lives will be saved and less pressure will be put on healthcare systems.  

The guidelines are in place to prevent contact with someone who may be infected with COVID-19.  

Because of this, online sex work is still safe and viable as a form of income, whether you were doing this before or are thinking of doing so now.  

Published: 22nd April, 2020

Author: Henry Gray

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  • Sex Work & COVID-19
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What about my income?

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We understand that for many people who engage in face-to-face sex work, these guidelines will prevent them from working as before, and therefore cut off part or all of their income. Safety is paramount. People should not feel forced into dangerous situations physically or illegally in order to make an income. There may be financial assistance available to you.  

If you have another job that offers it, you will be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay if you become infected with COVID-19 or have to look after someone else. Contact your employer about this – they are obliged to support you accessing Statutory Sick Pay.  

If you are off work due to being deemed a non-essential worker, you will shortly be able to claim the government wage subsidy, available from the end of April. Extensive guides for Employers and employees can be found here. 

If you are registered as self-employed, as a sex worker or otherwise, you are now able to apply for Universal Credit.

For more detailed information, please refer to Umbrella Lane's resources here.

Umbrella Lane and SWARM have set-up crisis funds to support those who may need it in this time. Contact them for more information. They are calling on the Scottish Government to help bolster support for sex workers across the board, detailed here.

Published: 22nd April, 2020

Author: Henry Gray

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  • Sex Work & COVID-19
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What about my sexual health?

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Many usual services are reduced or stopped due to COVID-19. Sexual Health services are still operating though only in very limited capacity. NHS services are only dealing with emergencies and everyone is having a telephone consultation first. Some Health Boards are offering a call-back service you can book on-line. Please use the NHS Inform Online Appointment service to find out if this is possible in your area.

If you need to collect medicines from your sexual health clinic, they should be able to deliver to you or arrange collection if necessary. Contact your usual clinic to find out what they offer in the way of this – if you’re having trouble or are self-isolating so can’t get outside, contact us.  

Sexual Health Service Finder: https://www.sexualhealthscotland.co.uk/get-help/sexual-health-service-finder 

Published: 22nd April, 2020

Author: Henry Gray

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I feel especially isolated – is there anyone in a similar situation I can talk to?

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We understand that the amount sex work is affected by COVID-19 and these new guidelines will be causing anxiety, worry and stress, and that having people to talk to who understand the situation can be a relief – and not always that easy to find.  

Umbrella Lane runs an online sex worker only space to engage with peers and offer advice and support though this time. To be added to this space please email them on [email protected]

They also have a 24/7 support line available to sex workers: 07377518263 

Umbrella Lane are also hosting weekly workshops and webinars for sex workers and some open to allies with guest speakers on a range of topics, including practical skill building for diversifying income and mental and emotional wellbeing. Some great speakers have been confirmed. Follow their Twitter for updates and information: www.twitter.com/UmbrellaLane 

Published: 22nd April, 2020

Author: Henry Gray

Related topics:
  • Sex Work & COVID-19
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