Prostitute-free zone on notorious Hessle Road
Former sex workers speak of dangers
A group of former street sex workers has criticised Hull City Council and police for a clampdown on prostitution they claim “vilifies” women and puts their lives in danger. The women, who have formed a collective called An Untold Story-Voices, are concerned the work of outreach services is being undermined by an increased police presence since the introduction of anti social behaviour orders to tackle prostitution. The group was also angered by a request made by Inspector Kirsty Tock, of the Hull central community policing team, for business and members of the public to contact police if they see any evidence of prostitution. Emma Crick, c0-editor of An Untold Story – a book the women have authored about their experiences working on Hull’s notorious Hessle Road – said the call for the community to come forward with information, at a time when vital services are being cut, amounted to a “call to arms” against sex workers. In a statement to Big Issue North Hull City Council reiterated that members of the community should come forward if they “have concerns over any activity”.