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Balancing study and work can be challenging, and when sex work is part of that balance, it’s important to prioritise your health, safety, and emotional wellbeing. To help you feel supported and informed, SASH is here to with 8 practical tips to keep in mind when sex working during your studies.
1 - Sex working and prioritising your safety and boundaries
You have the right to make choices about your sexual activity, whether it’s for work or pleasure. This includes deciding who you engage with, what type of sexual activity you have (such as using condoms), and stopping at any time if you want to. Safer sex work isn’t just about your sexual health - it’s also about personal safety. That includes:
- Protecting your privacy both online and offline.
- Telling a trusted person where you’re going or who you’re meeting.
- Being aware of your surroundings and know possible escape routes.
- Identifying who you can ask for help if needed.
- Carrying a personal safety alarm and keep your phone fully charged.
- Trusting your instincts - if something feels wrong, it probably is.
You can also sign up to NUM (National Ugly Mugs) to receive alerts about potentially unsafe clients.
2 - Find your balance with study and sex work
Being a student and sex working can feel overwhelming. You might be juggling course deadlines, client expectations, and the need to earn enough to cover your expenses, all of which can impact your wellbeing. To make things more manageable, try:
- Identifying your goals and priorities so you know what matters most.
- Creating a schedule and using time blocking to stay organised.
- Setting clear boundaries and sticking to them to protect your time and energy.
3 - Know your legal rights with sex work
Buying and selling sex is legal in the UK for people aged 18 and over who consent. However, some activities related to sex work are illegal, so it’s important to know the law. Be aware that some universities or courses have policies that could affect students who do sex work. These might include disciplinary action or even expulsion. Make sure you check if this applies to you and think about how you’ll navigate these rules.
4 - Stay protected and get tested
Regular STI testing is important for anyone who is sexually active, whether you’re sex working or not. You can visit any NHS sexual health clinic for free testing and treatment, access PrEP and PEP if you’re at risk of HIV, and explore different contraceptive options that suit your needs.
If it’s easier, you can also order free postal STI tests to complete at home through SHL (Sexual Health London), and in some areas even emergency contraception.
You don’t have to give your real name or say you’re sex working, but sharing as much information as you feel comfortable with can help you get the right support and follow-up care.
5 - Sex work and looking after your body
Looking after your reproductive health is important, and there are simple steps you can take:
- Get to know your body and check regularly for changes.
- Look for lumps, bumps, or skin changes on your breasts, pecs, vulva, and testicles.
- Attend regular cervical screening if you have a cervix.
See your GP if you notice any changes, bleed after sex or between periods, or if your periods are very heavy or painful and affect your quality of life.
6 - Explore your options
Exploring sexuality and gender identity can happen at any age or stage of life, and starting at university or college often brings new experiences and the freedom to express who you are.
You might be thinking about dating, starting or ending relationships, body image, confidence, or coming out to others. If you’re sex working, you may have sex with people of a different gender than those you choose for pleasure, or you might be managing intimate relationships alongside your work. All of this can affect your wellbeing, so finding support is important.
If you are non-binary or trans, 56 Dean Street offers a range of services, including hormone testing and cervical screening.
7 - Make time for self-care while sex working
Studying and sex working can sometimes feel overwhelming. You might be juggling responsibilities, feeling isolated, or worrying about pleasing everyone and what others think.
Taking time for self-care can make a big difference. Try:
- Journaling or practicing mindfulness
- Spending time outdoors
- Getting enough sleep and eating well
- Building healthy social connections
These small steps can help improve your wellbeing and reduce stress.
8 - Think about the long-term
You might only be sex working while studying, or you may plan to stay in the industry longer term. Either way, building on your skills can help you feel confident and understand your options. This includes:
- Staying organised
- Communicating effectively
- Reflecting and responding to challenges
- Managing your finances
- Using technology confidently
Recognising these abilities can help you know your worth and explore future opportunities.
Support at SASH for sex workers
If you need some support, SASH is here for you. We can support you with your sexual-reproductive health and relationship wellbeing, whether your support needs are related to your work or not. If you would like some help, please refer yourself into our service, or if you have any questions, then get in touch.