Our approach to abuse

Although sex work is legal, abuse still occurs, such as exploitation and unsafe working conditions. That is why we take our responsibility to better protect clients and sex workers seriously.

We raise awareness throughout the entire chain with informative campaigns and work closely with the police to identify and tackle abuses more quickly. We also organize consultations with parties such as the police, the Public Prosecution Service, and Soa Aids Nederland to share knowledge and trends.

Our goal: a safe working environment where sex workers can do their work without abuse or exploitation.

Examples of abuse

Exploitation: Some sex workers work under pressure from pimps or employers in poor conditions, with little control over their own safety and well-being.

Human trafficking: In certain situations, sex workers are moved against their will or forced to perform sexual services.

Unsafe working conditions: Sex workers may be exposed to violence, sexual abuse, or work without access to essential healthcare.

Stigma and discrimination: Sex workers often face prejudice and are regularly disadvantaged.

Financial exploitation: Some sex workers do not receive fair compensation for their work and are financially disadvantaged.

Reporting abuse: what you can do

As a customer, you may sometimes pick up on signs or sense that something is wrong. Instead of looking away, it is important to report it. This helps to tackle abuse. Anonymous options are available to protect your privacy:

Report Crime Anonymously: This independent reporting center allows you to share information about possible illegal practices or exploitation without revealing your identity. Go to reporting center

Report forced prostitution: Have you noticed signs of forced prostitution? Report this to the police, who can take action to protect the sex worker and investigate the situation. Go to reporting center

By staying alert and reporting abuses, you contribute to a safer environment for sex workers and help prevent exploitation and abuse.

Healthcare for sex workers

STIs are an occupational hazard in sex work. Therefore, get tested at least twice a year and get vaccinated against hepatitis B. You can get tested at a GGD sex worker consultation hour, a general GGD consultation hour, or your family doctor. If you have symptoms after sex, see a doctor immediately.

Find a sex worker consultation hour in your area.

Make an appointment for hepatitis B vaccination.

Starting sex work

Are you starting sex work? Make sure you are well informed about your rights, obligations, and working safely. You can work independently under the “opting-in” measure; working as an employee is rare.

For more information about starting sex work, visit sekswerk.info. For your rights and obligations, visit Prostitutie Goed Geregeld.

Quitting sex work

Do you want to quit sex work? Help is available, for example with finding new work or applying for benefits.

In Amsterdam, you can contact P&G292.

In Utrecht, Belle can help.

SPOT46 is there for The Hague.

Door2Door provides support in Rotterdam.

Looking for help in another region? Visit sekswerk.info for support in your area.

Support services for sex workers

Do you have questions about your work or do you need care? Each region has various support providers offering a range of services. Some only offer care, while others also offer workshops or legal support.

Search for support providers in your area at sekswerk.info.

Ugly Mugs NL: Protect yourself and your colleagues

Have you experienced violence and want to warn your colleagues? Join Ugly Mugs NL. This online platform for sex workers allows you to report violence, receive warnings about dangerous clients, and check new clients. Ugly Mugs NL contains a blacklist of dangerous individuals, where privacy protection is essential. For more information, see the Ugly Mugs NL privacy protocol.

Help with complaints: complaints desk for sex workers

Do you have a question or complaint about an organization, such as regarding permits, finances or safety? Submit it to the organization in question. Do you find this difficult or don’t get proper help after submitting your complaint? Then visit the Complaints Desk at sexwork.info. The Complaint Desk will help you look for a solution. Go to sekswerk.info/klachtenbalie for more information.

Safe and Pleasant: Code of conduct for visitors of sex workers

Are you planning to visit a sex worker? Then treat them with respect so that it is safe and pleasant for both of you. Make clear agreements and respect the sex worker’s boundaries. Are you going for the first time or looking for tips for a pleasant experience?
Read more here

Scammed

It unfortunately happens that clients are scammed by criminals. Never pay anyone other than the sex worker herself in advance, unless it is a licensed business. Once intermediaries are involved in the payment, chances are you are dealing with scams or other abuses.
Have you been scammed anyway? Then report it to the police or report it to Report Crime Anonymously so these criminals can’t continue:

• Report Crime Anonymously
• Report to Police