Campaigners have warned that the freezing of bank accounts for prostitues leaves them vulnerable to exploitation and violence.
The warning comes after former UKIP leader Nigel Farage demanded compensation from private bank Coutts after it closed his account, partly due to his political views.
Two bank bosses, including NatWest Group's chief executive Dame Alison Rose, stepped down last week, with Ms Rose admitting she was the source of a BBC story stating Farage's bank account was shut on commercial grounds.
Audrey Caradonna, a spokesperson for the Sex Workers' Union, told The Independent: "For prostitutes, suddenly losing access to your bank account and your money isn't a freak occurrence but an all too common nightmare."
She said that the freezing of bank accounts leaves sex workers unable to withdraw money or make payments, which can make them increasingly vulnerable to exploitation and violence.
"A lack of funds means many are forced to take on riskier work, such as working in isolated locations or accepting cash payments," she said.
"This puts them at risk of being exploited by clients or even attacked."
Caradonna called on banks to stop freezing the bank accounts of sex workers and to ensure that they have access to the financial services they need.
The freezing of bank accounts is a serious issue that can have a devastating impact on sex workers.
It is important that banks take steps to ensure that this does not happen, and that they provide support to those who have been affected.
- The freezing of bank accounts can have a significant impact on the mental and physical health of sexworkers.
- It can also make it difficult for them to pay their rent, bills, and other expenses.
- The freezing of bank accounts can also lead to sex workers being evicted from their homes or losing their jobs.
- Campaigners are calling on banks to introduce clear and transparent policies on the freezing of bank accounts, and to provide more support to those who have been affected.