Sex work, substance misuse and service provision: The experiences of female sex workers in south London

Background: Observations suggest that patterns of drug use may be changing among sex workers and that service provision may be failing this group. The aim of this study was to investigate life, substance-related, and service-provision experiences of women who are both substance users and involved in sex work. Methods: The study was carried out using unstructured recorded confidential interviews and analysis of the themes arising from them. Results: Twelve women were interviewed. Most of them came from an abusive background. There is a vicious circle between sex working and taking drugs-sex work generates funds and drugs facilitate continuation of work. The emergence of crack cocaine was consistently significant. Conclusion: Experiences of the women discussed here are not new and confirm existing knowledge. Important issues related to service provision were discussed. Flexible services are necessary to attract, engage and support this vulnerable group.