How to respond sensitively to women’s money and financial needs:
Understand that a woman may be driven to start selling sex as a way to get quick cash to cover immediate needs and essentials.
If a woman you support was previously experiencing money issues and suddenly comes into money, be curious and check where the money came from – ask if she has ever considered selling sex.
If a woman discloses that she is selling sex, take a harm reduction approach – discuss safety planning and explore alternatives to alleviate some of her money issues.
Ask about any specific financial issues and make sure she is getting advice around this – for example, how to deal with debt.
Discuss other funds that may be able to assist her aside from benefits – e.g. food banks, support to pay for children’s expenses, crisis funds.
Consider discussing budgeting with the woman to find ways to ensure her money stretches to cover all her needs.
Be mindful of the dynamics of money – check whether the woman you are supporting is able to keep the money she is getting from selling sex or if others her are taking the earnings.
Make sure to tap women into the Emergency Assistance Fund for crisis money – women involved in selling or exchanging sex may be eligible.
Recognise that, even if a woman is OK with her involvement, there can be long term negative impacts – keep checking in with her to see if she needs support around this at any point.
A woman’s circumstances may change and she may want to consider other options – make sure to support her to consider what she would like to do in the long and short term.