Safety Contract: What It Is and Why Every Sex Worker Needs One

When we talk about a safety contract, a written or verbal agreement between a sex worker and a client outlining boundaries, expectations, and emergency protocols. Also known as client agreement, it's not about mistrust—it's about control. In a job where power imbalances are common, having clear rules upfront can mean the difference between a safe interaction and a dangerous one.

Most safety contracts include core elements like client screening, the process of verifying a client’s identity, checking references, and using trusted platforms to reduce risk, de-escalation techniques, practical verbal and behavioral strategies to calm tense situations before they turn violent, and legal rights, knowing what you can and cannot be forced to do under local laws. These aren’t theoretical ideas—they’re tools used daily by sex workers across the UK and beyond. A contract might state: no drugs, no unprotected sex, no going to private homes without a prior check-in, or immediate termination if a client becomes aggressive. Simple. Clear. Non-negotiable.

Some think safety contracts are only for street-based workers, but that’s not true. Independent escorts, online workers, and even those in regulated environments use them. A contract helps filter out bad clients before they even show up. It gives you a script to say no without guilt. It protects you if something goes wrong—whether you’re reporting an incident to the police or just needing to explain to a friend what happened. And it’s not just about danger. It’s about dignity. When a client respects your rules, it changes the whole dynamic. You’re not a service to be consumed—you’re a professional with boundaries.

You don’t need a lawyer to write one. Many workers share templates online, and some organizations provide printable versions in multiple languages. The best ones are short, typed or handwritten, and kept on your phone or in your bag. You can even read them aloud at the start of a meeting—most clients expect it. If they push back, that’s your first red flag. A good client won’t mind. A bad one will try to break it before you even get to the door.

Below, you’ll find real stories, templates, and strategies from workers who’ve used safety contracts to avoid violence, handle legal threats, and stay in charge of their work. These aren’t hypothetical guides—they’re lived experiences. Whether you’re new to the industry or have been doing this for years, there’s something here that can make your next encounter safer, calmer, and more respectful.