Dear reader, 

In this edition, we explore the dual experience of women selling or exchanging sex with the criminal justice system. On one hand, we look at the different barriers that can prevent women from reporting violence, and on the other, what happens when women have been criminalised for selling sex or other activities. To understand this contradictory experience, in this issue you will find:

• Two insights articles delving into women's experiences as victims of a crime and when being criminalised
• Interview with Routes Out on advocating for women who who have to engage with the justice system.
• An interview with Julie Swede, a survivor of prostitution who challenged the disclosure of prostitution-related convictions
• And a range of resources and interesting reads with stories and facts about women involved in selling or exchanging sex.

Until next time,

The CSE Aware Information and Resources Officer

In this first part of our Criminal Justice Insights, we look at the high levels of abuse and violence women can face when selling or exchanging sex and the multiple factors that can prevent women from seeking justice.

In this second part of our Criminal Justice Insights, we look at the other side of women's experiences of the justice system - criminalisation. We discuss the aftermath of being in prison, outline how this can increase vulnerabilities to becoming involved in selling or exchanging sex, and look at the long-term impact of criminal records.

Sally Hendry is a Case Manager at Routes Out, a specialist service for women in Glasgow, and she has been supporting women selling or exchanging sex for over eighteen years. In this interview, she discusses the apprehensions that women can have when it comes to the criminal justice system and explains how women can best be supported to access their rights.

Wed 20 September 2023, 11am - 1pm 

Join us for a free webinar for frontline services where we will explore the needs of women who sell or exchange sex when engaging with the criminal justice system, including good practice examples.