OCTOBER 2024 - birmingham handbag project

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The public are being asked to donate new or gently used handbags for the initiative.

The handbags will then be filled with essential items to support general health and well-being, such as personal hygiene products, contraception, safety tools and informational resources. 

They will be given out during outreach sessions by Turnaround's support workers, 

in a confidential and non-judgemental way.

The handbag amnesty will play a significant role in empowering individuals within this community, providing them not only with practical items but also with a sense of dignity and care. 

Coun Nicky Brennan, the Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, said: “This initiative will provide sex workers across the city with essential items imperative for their safety in a confidential and non-judgmental way. The council understands the importance of the services the community safety team and Turnaround West Midlands provide sex workers, which is vital for their well-being.

“If anyone should require help or support, reach out to us or Turnaround West Midlands. All services are free to all sex workers regardless of their gender. Services are also confidential and non-judgmental.” Funding for this initiative was secured through the Safer Street 5 programme.

Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said: “I am pleased my Safer Streets funding is being used to provide items vital for the safety and well-being of sex workers in Birmingham. They will be provided in a handbag, giving people who need them a sense of dignity, while also providing essential items.