SARAH

SARAH'S STORY

Sarah is 26 years old, has a degree in English Literature and has been involved in prostitution for 5 years, selling sex in a private flat. She was referred to an Encompass Service from a specialist womens clinic.

She was introduced to sex work by a friend whilst at Uni as a way to fund her studies. Sarah has graduated but has continued selling sex as she feels it gives her things that she may not afford otherwise such as designer clothing, holidays and beauty treatments.

Sarah came to a specialist women's clinic which one of her friends told her about. She had been a few times, met the staff but had never asked to speak to anyone before. She decided that she would like to seek some support, especially emotional support as she struggles with low moods and feels weepy often. She feels like she doesn't have anyone in her life that she can speak openly with, about exactly how she feels. She has been with her partner for 6 years, however feels he doesn't understand how she feels and isn't supportive. He is aware that she is involved in prostitution.

Sarah has recently found out she is pregnant and is unsure whether to have a termination or not.
The worker from the Encompass Service tries to explore Sarah's feelings on sex work during 1-2-1 meetings. Sarah states that working in the sex industry doesn't have an impact on her mental health and that she has no issues with working.

The Encompass Service worker respects that and meets weekly with Sarah to listen to her and offer emotional support. They have spoken about counselling however Sarah feels this is something she would like to look in to in the future and not at the moment. Sarah does not want to exit at the minute but she does worry that her escorting has become unreliable recently so may have to in the near future.

Her worker is not pushing her to exit but is supporting Sarah access other services for her pregnancy and health.