Sex workers and politicians have called for an end to the "prostitute's caution," a police caution that exclusively targets sex workers in England and Wales. Unlike other cautions, this one doesn't require an admission of guilt or agreement from the individual. Police can issue it if they believe someone has broken prostitution laws, even with minimal evidence.
This caution, which remains on a sex worker's record for 100 years, severely impacts their ability to find employment and access services. It can also deter them from reporting crimes like rape and domestic violence.
Campaigners argue that these cautions can lead to convictions under the Street Offences Act 1959. They also highlight cases where cautions were issued without sufficient evidence or even to individuals who weren't sex workers.
The English Collective of Prostitutes (ECP) has called for the immediate cessation of these cautions, arguing that they perpetuate the stigma and marginalization of sex workers. They emphasize the need for a more supportive approach that addresses the root causes of sex work, such as poverty and lack of opportunity.