SW5 > Message board > Aug 2004 archive

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SW5 message board August 2004 archive

Wed, 4 Aug 04

If something did go wrong, who'd know?

Whether it's a booking or a pick up on the scene, think about who knows where you are and who you are with. If you went missing, who'd notice or call the police? And could the client be traced?

If you take bookings over the phone, get their number and record it somewhere safe. Is it a landline (home, work or payphone?) or a mobile number? Is it listed on one of the escort safety websites / 'ugly mugs' lists?

If you use the internet, is the booking made from an account you need a credit card for, or is it a free one where they could use any old details... or even one that promises anonymity for users? Does their address have any hits on google?

When you talk to a new potential client, ask if they've seen anyone else. If so, try to check to see if they're an ok client or one you might prefer not to see.

Many people call someone - even if it's just their own answerphone or voicemail - on arrival at a client's or when a client arrives, saying when they expect to be finished and that they'll ring back then, to make the client know they'd be missed quickly.

If you work at home, consider having someone else in (or pretending there is!) when clients are present.

If you're working on the streets, get someone else to note the car's registration number and tell them when you're expected back. Let the client know this has happened.

None of this is a complete protection - 'pay as you go' mobiles can be bought with cash and cars can be stolen - but clients who think they can be traced are less likely to cause trouble in the first place.

If you think you're in a dangerous situation, get out immediately. Trust your gut instincts.

And remember: someone who attacks you will probably attack someone else too. If you do have trouble, let the police know - they are treating attacks on sex workers more seriously than ever before. You can report it anonymously via many sex work projects if you'd prefer

Posted by SW5 [Link] [24 comments]