Call for investigation into sex work after rise in crimes

Richard Udall is worried about the safety of sex workers in the county as figures show a rise in “sex work police incidents” across the West Mercia Police force area.

Cllr Udall said he has been contacted by sex workers who claim they are often seen as criminals rather than victims when seeking help from the police.

He said other sex workers had spoken of being accused of running brothels when they have booked hotel rooms in pairs for safety.

Cllr Udall wants the county council’s Overview and Scrutiny Performance Board to investigate issues including whether sex work should be seen as a crime, the policies of social landlords towards sex workers and enforcement agencies not always seeing sex workers as victims.

In a letter to Tom Wells, chairman of the scrutiny board, Cllr Udall quotes figures obtained from West Mercia Police via a Freedom of Information request.

Cllr Udall is worried about the safety of sex workers in the county (Image: Cllr Richard Udall)

These show a rise in the number of crimes related to sex work from 95 in 2018 to 159 in 2019, 187 in 2020, 214 in 2021 and 157 from August 31 to the end of 2022.

The number of incidents, recorded separately, also increased from 78 in 2018 to 179 in 2021.

READ MORE: Cllr Richard Udall claims sex work is rising in Worcester

“This came to my attention after learning that some sex workers in Worcester, who allegedly sought help from the police, were treated as potential criminals rather than victims,” said Cllr Udall.

“Also, I have heard of sex workers working in pairs and booking a hotel room for safety. They were accused of running a brothel, so their attempt to work in a safer environment was illegal.”

In the letter, Cllr Udall raises the issue of whether enough support and advice is available to sex workers.

He also questions whether sex workers sharing a hotel room should be prosecuted for running a brothel.

“Is this the correct interpretation of the law and should safe locations be provided?” he asks.

Tom Wells, chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Performance Board at Worcestershire County Council, said: "All members of the council are encouraged to suggest items for scrutiny at panel meetings. This item will be considered as part of the work programme going forward.”

West Mercia Police has been approached for comment. 

There are places in Worcestershire offering help to anyone, including sex workers, who is the victim of rape or sexual assault.

The Glade offers support for sexual abuse victims from its base in Bransford, near Worcester. You can call The Glade on 0800 970 0377.

West Mercia Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Centre also has a support line for sexual abuse victims: 0808 500 2222.