So here's the thing about sex work in Northern Ireland: it's complicated. The law here means selling sex isn't illegal, but buying it is. They call this the 'Nordic model' and it sounds progressive, but in reality? It just makes everything more dangerous.
I chose to keep working despite the legal landscape. Every client interaction carries risk now. One wrong move and a client could be charged, which means they're more nervous, less likely to negotiate safely, more likely to rush or be unpredictable.
The criminalisation of clients means screening becomes crucial. I'm constantly balancing protection for myself and potential legal risks for the person I'm meeting. It's like a weird chess game where one wrong move could mean serious consequences.
Some of my colleagues have moved across to the Republic or even further. The legal pressure here is intense. Not just legally, but socially. Northern Ireland isn't exactly known for being sexually progressive. The DUP's moral conservatism hangs over everything.
I'm not here to debate the ethics. I'm just telling you how it actually works on the ground. For me, for my community. We adapt. We survive.