According to estimates paid sexual services are provided by 18,000-20,000 persons in Poland (Human Rights Report: Poland, 2009). Moral changes and development of new technology caused increase of availability and changes in the forms of providing sex services. Whereas the risks faced by sex workers (i.e. sexually transmitted diseases, violence, low self-esteem, sexual and emotional problems in contact with a long-term partner, unwanted pregnancy) do not change.
The aim of the project was to improve safety of sex workers through establishing an integrated support system for persons providing sex services in Warsaw.
Thanks to the project realization 748 persons obtained advice in regard to safety of sexual contacts and sex working.
A safe place (drop-in centre) was founded, where persons providing sex services may obtain support and benefit professional guidance concerning legal issues, STDs, addictions and social matters. Assistance was provided simultaneously through street working in the streets, party working in escort agencies and sex clubs for MSM (men who have sex with men) and networking on sites and dating chats. Team of 15 street workers and party workers was trained and comprehensively prepared for the field work. Solid contacts with persons working in the streets, in escort agencies and clubs were established. Co-operation was started with 10 escort agencies hiring sex workers (over 100 women gained support) and 7 clubs and sex clubs for MSM (about 430 persons). 27 persons obtained therapeutic help. A team of trained peer educators – social allies - was established, who assist in educational activities among women and men providing sex services in Warsaw (4 persons).
In total 748 persons, including over 500 persons providing sex services benefited various activities.
Foundation Studio Psychologii Zdrowia provided a therapeutic support for sex workers. Input of the Prostitutes Interest Organization in Norway (PION) to the project consisted in training the street and party workers.