What is the legal status of prostitution in Brighton?

Prostitution itself is legal in England, but nearly all related activities are criminalized. Brighton follows national legislation where selling sex isn’t illegal, but soliciting, brothel-keeping, and kerb-crawling carry criminal penalties. Sussex Police prioritize exploitation cases over individual sex workers.

What specific laws regulate prostitution in Brighton?

The Policing and Crime Act 2009 criminalizes paying for sex with someone “controlled for gain” (effectively targeting exploitation). The Sexual Offences Act 2003 prohibits street solicitation and brothel operation. Brighton authorities focus enforcement on trafficking rings and public nuisance reduction.

How do Brighton’s laws compare to other UK cities?

Unlike Leeds’ managed zones (now closed) or Liverpool’s harm-reduction approach, Brighton adopts standard UK enforcement. However, local charities report police often use discretionary powers to connect workers with support services rather than prosecution.

What safety risks do sex workers face in Brighton?

Street-based workers report highest violence rates (35% experience assault according to Sussex outreach data). Common risks include client aggression, robbery, and exposure to extreme weather. Indoor workers face different challenges like isolation and screening difficulties.

How can sex workers operate safely in Brighton?

Safety protocols include: 1) Screening clients through established networks 2) Using panic buttons in premises 3) Implementing buddy check-in systems 4) Avoiding secluded meeting locations. The NUM app allows discreet emergency alerts to contacts.

Where are high-risk areas in Brighton?

Historically, Carlton Hill and St James’s Street saw street solicitation. Recent police data shows displacement to Madeira Drive and peripheral industrial estates after enforcement campaigns. These isolated locations increase vulnerability.

What health services exist for Brighton sex workers?

Claude Nicol Centre provides confidential STI testing, contraception, and wound care. Brighton’s NHS integrated sexual health service reports 62% of local sex workers access screenings quarterly. Needle exchanges operate at 15 locations citywide.

How does substance use intersect with sex work in Brighton?

Charity data indicates approximately 40% of street-based workers use heroin or crack cocaine. Projects like Antidote offer tailored support including substitute prescribing and outreach. Complex links exist between addiction, homelessness, and survival sex work.

What support services are available in Brighton?

Key organizations include: 1) SWISH (Sex Worker Inclusive Sexual Health) providing healthcare navigation 2) The Martlets hospice offering specialist support 3) Brighton Oasis Project focusing on substance use 4) Surviving Economic Abuse helpline.

How can sex workers access exit programs in Brighton?

Routes out include: 1) Brighton Women’s Centre’s specialist programs 2) Government-funded National Referral Mechanism for trafficking victims 3) Employment retraining via Brighton MET College. Success requires holistic housing and mental health support.

How has technology changed Brighton’s sex industry?

90% of transactions now originate online according to Sussex University research. Platforms like AdultWork and Vivastreet dominate, reducing street visibility but creating digital footprints. Cryptocurrency payments are emerging, complicating financial monitoring.

What are common scams targeting sex workers in Brighton?

Prevalent issues include: 1) Fake law enforcement extortion 2) “Deposit and ghost” booking fraud 3) Counterfeit bank transfers 4) Location theft through phishing. Sussex Police’s Operation Topaz investigates digital exploitation.

What are the demographics of Brighton’s sex workers?

Latest outreach data shows: 78% female, 15% male, 7% transgender. 65% are UK nationals, with significant Eastern European and Brazilian cohorts. Migrant workers face particular vulnerabilities including language barriers and visa dependencies.

How does Brighton’s LGBTQ+ scene intersect with sex work?

Kemptown’s gay village hosts specific male and trans worker networks. Charities like LGBT Switchboard report higher entry rates among queer youth facing housing instability. Specialized support exists at Allsorts Youth Project.

What is being done to reduce exploitation in Brighton?

Multi-agency approaches include: 1) Modern Slavery Partnership intelligence sharing 2) Hotel staff training to spot trafficking 3) “Ugly Mugs” violence reporting scheme 4) Financial investigation targeting exploiter assets. Conviction rates remain low despite increased awareness.