An Exploratory Pilot Study to Map the working practices and experiences of Internet based Sex Workers in the UK. (360G-Wellcome-105446_Z_14_Z)

This small research project will act as an exploratory pilot study to investigate the experiences and working practices of sex workers who operate through the Internet. We have little knowledge of their experiences of sex working, how it differs from working in a brothel or on the street, and moreso how they experience crimes, particularly violence. We will conduct a survey, hosted through Bristol Online Surveys, to the individual membership of the National Ugly Mugs, who have signed up to recei ve information about health, safety and wellbeing issues as sex workers. The pilot study will aim to capture some core demographic information, as well as map types of sex work, and ask about issues such as stigma, isolation, safety, contact with health services and crimes experienced. The survey will be analysed to expose core data about this population from which a larger mixed methods study can be designed. We will present a written report, a briefing for specialist sex work health projects, and hold a Learning Event symposium where practitioners are brought together who work directly with sex workers, as well as national policing representatives who work with the NUM scheme.