“This is not unique to Durham University, and engagement in sex work, which includes online activities, is a feature within the HE (Higher Education) sector across the UK”
Durham University faced fierce backlash from MPs and feminists condemning them for “tacit endorsement” of sex work after they hosted a seminar last week.
The university employed the use of an external seminar titled ‘Students Involved in the Adult Sex Industry’ which they say was in response to a small number of concerns raised by students.
Conservative MP for Newbury, Laura Farris, spoke out against the university, “The idea that there can be advisers to keep women safe when they’re putting themselves in these highly dangerous positions, or that it should be endorsed by a university is the absolute antithesis of what our higher education institutions should provide.”
Laura Farris, Member of Parliament for Newbury, speaking in the House of Commons
Her opinion was echoed by Labour MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington, Diane Abbott, “Sex work is degrading, dangerous and exploitative. Uni should have nothing to do with it”
Horrific that Durham University is offering training to students who want to be sex workers part-time. Sex work is degrading, dangerous and exploitative. Uni should have nothing to do with it https://t.co/BpuVdaLTmN
— Diane Abbott MP (@HackneyAbbott) November 12, 2021
However, Durham University fought back, insisting that the seminar was intended to help students and facilitate a safe space for those already engaged in sex work.
The story sparked a huge debate online with people on both sides expressing their views.
Durham University: hey students, if any of you are selling sex, this is where you can go to get confidential advice, support & healthcare. We're doing a training so all our staff know to signpost you to this service
British feminism: [four day meltdown]
— molly smith (@pastachips) November 14, 2021
@durham_uni I will make sure my daughter won’t apply to your Uni – the thought of her evolving in an institution which normalises sex work as a means to pay student loans for young women is incredibly concerning and says a lot about your organisation.
— Murielle Tippett-Jayer (@RDGTouristGuide) November 17, 2021
Farris argued that “nearly all the feminists in parliament would take the same view” as hers, though Twitter user Oliver Hanmer encouraged Durham University by agreeing that the stigma around sex work puts women involved at a greater risk of harm;
Don't know how you can call yourself a feminist if you're against Durham uni providing better support, education and protection for anyone involved in sex work. Stigmatising/vilifying is dangerous and only puts the already vulnerable at even greater risk #politicslive
— Oliver Hanmer (@oliverghanmer) November 16, 2021
An official statement released after the backlash showed Durham University affirming their position.
“We make no apologies for working to ensure that Durham is a safe environment for all of our students and staff.”