Sex workers work in many different neighbourhoods. In some cases people in these neighbourhoods feel hostility and aren’t aware of how to engage with sex workers respectfully. In the past, sex workers have experienced extreme acts of violence and shaming and as a result they have little or no trust of others. Below you will find suggestions for how to initiate a dialogue between two people, one being a sex worker and the other a resident or business owner. Please keep in mind that this is a process; it requires commitment and good intentions. Relationships take time and both parties need to feel safe. Here is how to start:

1. People come and go in neighbourhoods, but you probably see some faces regularly; if this is true and you feel safe, start by saying, “hello.” Be prepared to meet with silence the first one or two times. If you are consistent and your intent is good, eventually the other will feel safe enough to respond.
2. Naturally, after you have built up some familiarity, the next step is to make small talk. Maybe there is a community event or the weather has been extremely beautiful and in passing you note this to the other. In some cases a small dialogue will happen and both parties will continue on their way with a smile.
3. In neighbourhoods where there is active street level sex work you may see things such as garbage, needles, condoms and an increase in traffic. Now that a relationship has been built, this is the perfect time to speak to some of these issues with sex workers. Share your concerns and explore how we can all work together to address these issues within street level sex work in our neighbourhoods. We all want to live and work in safer communities and a solution needs to be met by both parties over time.

Tips:

• If you see someone in distress don’t be afraid to ask if they are ok.
• Never offer something you can’t give: keep it simple like coffee, water, or the use of your washroom.
• Know your neighbourhood and who is working. Sex workers will have a greater sense of safety if others are watching out for their interests.
• Remember that sex workers are the eyes within communities when no one else is around. In some cases their presence can lower the chances of vandalism and break ins.
• Leave your lights on. If you can keep the alleys lit too, they will be safer for sex workers.
• The police aren’t always the best people to call when no crime has taken place. Mobile services are available to assist sex workers, if you are not comfortable assisting them yourselves. Keep their numbers handy.
• Services for needle pick-up are available by phone. Use them.

Mobile Access Project (MAP) – provides outreach to sex workers 604-720-5686 Monday-Sunday 10:30pm -5:30am

Sex Trade Liaison: 604-686-7523

Needle Pick-up Hotline: 604-657-6561