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Scottish sex workers warn of poverty risks under proposed Nordic model
Sex workers in Scotland are voicing concerns over a proposed bill that would criminalize clients, arguing it could push them into financial hardship while failing to address violence in the industry. The legislation, introduced by independent MSP Ash Regan, adopts the Nordic model-first implemented in Sweden-which decriminalizes selling sex but penalizes buyers.
Workers cite flexibility and financial stability as key benefits
Porcelain Victoria, a 26-year-old sex worker based in Fife with eight years in the industry, describes self-employment as a lifeline for childcare and financial independence. "Being self-employed gives me the flexibility to manage my hours around parenting," she said, adding that her work brings satisfaction akin to other service professions: "Whether you're a chef, a plumber, or in retail, the goal is to leave clients happy."
Victoria entered sex work at 18 to escape an abusive household and plans to continue "until I can't." Her long-term goal includes semi-retirement and transitioning into counseling to help individuals and couples explore kinks and fetishes. "I'd love to still be doing this in my 60s," she said.
Critics argue bill would reduce client base, increase risks
The proposed law, which retains existing bans on brothels and soliciting but adds client criminalization, has drawn sharp criticism from workers like Victoria. "Fewer clients will risk seeing us if they face legal consequences," she warned, noting that traditional employment wouldn't cover her bills. "This could force many of us into poverty."
Amelia, an Edinburgh-based worker who requested anonymity, echoed these concerns. After leaving a grueling hospitality job-where she faced verbal abuse despite long hours-she transitioned to sex work via OnlyFans. She dismisses claims the Nordic model would reduce violence: "Violent clients already break laws. Criminalizing all clients just drives away the safer ones, leaving us more vulnerable."
"We're willing to put sex workers at risk to send a message to men. It's insane, and it won't work."
Amelia, sex worker
Amelia also highlighted safety protocols that could collapse under the new law: "Clients won't share personal details if they fear police. Without a name, age, or contact, I'd never feel safe taking a booking."
Regan defends power shift, cites trafficker exploitation
Ash Regan, the bill's sponsor, rejected claims that the law would endanger workers. "Currently, clients exploit vulnerabilities by threatening to report workers to police," she said. "The Nordic model flips this-workers can refuse unsafe demands and report clients instead. That subtle power shift is critical for safety."
Regan's proposal includes statutory support for sex workers and expunging past solicitation convictions. However, the Scottish government, while supporting client criminalization in principle, has called for "substantial amendments," likely delaying passage until after the 2026 election.
Trafficking survivors' group backs bill amid rising cases
The bill has gained support from organizations like Tara (Trafficking Awareness Raising Alliance), which assists survivors. Operations manager Bronagh Andrew reported a surge in trafficked women this year: 124 supported between April and September, including 43 newly identified cases-a "big jump" from prior periods.
Andrew described traffickers' tactics, including isolating victims by withholding language skills or geographic orientation. "One woman didn't realize she was in Glasgow-she thought she was in Toronto," she said. Tara declines to interview survivors due to trauma risks but asserts the Nordic model would disrupt exploitative networks.
Debate centers on conflicting visions for safety
Both sides agree on improving women's lives but clash over methods. Workers like Victoria and Amelia emphasize economic survival and self-determination, while Regan and allies prioritize dismantling demand to curb exploitation. With the government seeking revisions, the bill's future remains uncertain ahead of next year's election.
Correction: An earlier version misstated the timeline for parliamentary review. The bill is unlikely to advance before the 2026 election.
