This short chapter will summarise the major themes presented in this book and some issues that arose for contributors as they pertain to representation and power. The chapter will be split into two sections that will discuss the arising concerns under headings: ‘If sex workers were in control’ and ‘If sex workers were really treated as victims’. The book ends with a brief summary of major contributions and aims for future research.

If sex workers were in control

Sex workers are diverse as we see here, and a single label or moniker masks (deliberately or otherwise) who really trades sex. Those who stand to gain from the mischaracterisation of sex workers and their industries benefit from ensuring that workers have little political power and no means to gain control over the industries that they work within. Keeping industry workers from enjoying the benefits of labour rights in the UK means that for many, their work will always be mediated by third parties, some of whom, but not all, are dangerous extortionists. We must acknowledge that there is work in exploitation and exploitation in work across all industries. Supporting sex industry workers in continuing to unionise and to self-regulate, as well as in setting policy and standards is critical for the future. This is crime prevention by environmental design, where sex workers can eliminate the conditions, roles and practices that cause them harm. The sex industry as a service industry will shift from being wholly a client and third party-driven industry to one with a more cooperative flavour, where workers’ rights are part of the ethos.

We can begin first by acknowledging that for the vast majority, sex work is work.

Existing law, such as the brothel-keeping legislation, section 33A of the Sexual Offences Act 2003, are harmful because they negatively affect sex workers. This legislation forces off-street workers, to work in isolation instead of with others who are lateral to them in role.