NSWP is seeking to appoint a Global Consultant to lead the development of a Briefing Paper, with accompanying Community Guide, on the right to housing and the unmet needs of sex workers. NSWP will consider applications from individuals based in or outside of the UK.
The right to housing is a fundamental human right enshrined in international human rights law, and is an essential part of the right to an adequate standard of living. The right to housing includes protection from eviction without discrimination and the right to legal recourse for those facing forced eviction. Due to criminalisation, stigma and discrimination, sex workers face frequent violations of their right to housing. Sex workers’ access to housing can be restricted due to third party laws, and because of a lack of documentation, bank accounts, or proof of income. Sex workers may be denied housing, unlawfully evicted from their homes, and reported to law enforcement solely due to their occupation.
Sex workers also experience discrimination in accessing temporary accommodation, such as hotels and short stay rentals. These risks are compounded for sex workers facing multiple forms of discrimination due to their race or ethnic background, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, migrant status, drug use, or criminal record. In recent years, housing inequities have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, military conflicts, and other humanitarian crises. At the same time, emergency housing and accommodation are often inaccessible or unsafe for sex workers. Housing and accommodation provided by non-governmental and ‘rescue’ organisations can be conditional on sex workers renouncing sex work, or may subject sex workers to restrictions that make it impossible to continue working. This Briefing Paper will examine sex workers’ unmet housing needs and shed light on widespread violations of sex workers’ fundamental right to housing.
Please see the full Terms of Reference on our website for the position and information on how to apply.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Sunday 26th March 2023 23.59 hours BST.