PCC Advocates for Exemption of Sex Work Convictions from Security Checks

A Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) has expressed support for an organization advocating for the exclusion of sex work-related convictions from security screening processes. Specifically, Matt Storey, the Labour Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland, has publicly endorsed the English Collective of Prostitutes’ (ECP) “Proceed without Caution” campaign. This initiative draws attention to the repercussions faced by sex workers who acquire criminal convictions. The ECP, a charitable organization, asserts that the requirement to declare such convictions during Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and other security assessments creates obstacles for individuals seeking to exit sex work. Storey stated: “It is necessary to recognise that the vast majority of sex workers are victims, not criminals.” According to the ECP, two-thirds of the women they surveyed indicated that a conviction related to sex work was the reason they encountered difficulties securing employment in mainstream society. Storey further commented: “Many just want to move on with their lives and be finally free from their often-traumatic past experiences and the unjust stigma they have endured for decades.” He expressed his belief that sex workers “should have the right to live their lives free from judgement, fear and humiliation.” The Police and Crime Commissioner has formally communicated with Jess Phillips, the Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, and Shabana Mamood, the Justice Secretary. In his correspondence, he urged the government to implement a policy that would exempt sex work convictions from being disclosed during DBS checks. Both the Home Office and the Ministry of Justice have been contacted for their official statements regarding this matter. Follow BBC Tees on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.