Inclusive research focussed on the experience of street sex workers accessing NHS health services in Hertfordshire

Why is the research needed?

This project aims to better understand the experiences of women involved in street sex work in Hertfordshire, with a particular focus on access to healthcare services. The number of women affected is unknown both locally and nationally, due to the hidden nature of this work and a lack of means to capture the data.

Currently, we do not have a way of gathering feedback or understanding the lived experiences of this group of women across Hertfordshire and, as a result, services are often designed without their input. This can make it harder for women to access the support they need, leading to low uptake of services and potentially worsening existing health and social inequalities.

What are we doing?

By talking directly to women involved in street sex work, this project will help us better understand the challenges they face when trying to access healthcare. It will help us identify the barriers that currently exist and highlight the improvements that women feel are most needed.

How are we working with communities, services and organisations?

We will be supported by a local VCFCE organisation who support women working in the sex industry across Hertfordshire, to help guide participatory and trauma-informed methods of engagement. This may include surveys, informal discussion groups and/or creative approaches.

What will the impact and benefits of this research be?

In the longer term, the aim is to use the findings to help shape services so that they are more accessible, welcoming, and responsive to the needs of women involved in street sex work.

What do we have planned for knowledge mobilisation and implementation?

We have presentations planned to be delivered to key audiences at University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire County Council and wider regional women's health networks to disseminate findings.

Related papers, outputs and resources

Draft research plan based on results for a future study through NIHR pre-doctoral Local Authority Fellowship.