Commercial Sexual Exploitation
Commercial Sexual Exploitation can include, but is not limited to: prostitution, lap dancing, stripping, pornography, human trafficking and sex for rent. No one should ever be forced into sexual activity without consent.
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Commercial Sexual Exploitation is when someone is involved in selling or exchanging sexual activity. This can include, but is not limited to: prostitution, lap dancing, stripping, pornography, human trafficking and sex for rent.
People may become involved in prostitution for many different reasons – some may need money urgently, others may be forced or pressured into it. People involved in prostitution are at risk of violence, abuse and exploitation.
No one should ever be forced into sexual activity without consent.
If you’re involved in prostitution or other forms of commercial sexual exploitation, there are organisations that can help and support you. You can access these services without fear of stigma, judgement or discrimination.
Download more information about commercial sexual exploitation in Easy Read format.
Further information about prostitution and the law in Scotland.
Police Scotland work to keep people involved in prostitution safe. If officers meet you, they will:
- check you are safe and well
- connect you with local support services if you need them
It is illegal to pay for sex in Scotland. The police focus on people who try to buy sex and arrest and charge them, not people selling it.
If you are a victim of a crime please report it to the police. You will be treated with respect and your report will be taken seriously. If you are worried about someone else who may be a victim of abuse or exploitation, then please contact the police.
- In an emergency, or if you are in immediate danger, please call 999. If it is not an emergency, you can report using 101.
- For people who may not be ready to report, or for people who wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
The UK Modern Slavery and Exploitation helpline’s web pages also have information on spotting the signs of sexual exploitation. Call their helpline on 08000 121 700.
If you’ve been raped or sexually assaulted in the last 7 days, you can phone the sexual assault self-referral phone service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 0800 148 88 88. Calls are free from landlines and mobiles.
Commercial Sexual Exploitation can also take place online – if you are victim of online abuse please report this to the police.
Summary Sheet
Download our commercial sexual exploitation summary sheet which highlights the need to know information. Multiple language options available.