SEX WORK TOOLKIT

Understanding Sex Work: Impacts

Children and Youth

Sexually exploited children and youth face all of the same health risks, levels of violence and abuse and stigma as adult sex workers. However, their vulnerability and level of exploitation are often greater because of their age and stage of developmental.

There are also risks for children and youth who are not sexually exploited. Dirty needles and condoms in neighbourhoods, in streets and in playgrounds pose serious health and safety hazards. The potential impact on children and youth’s development from exposure to street-based sex work is also a community concern.