Implementing Comprehensive HIV/STI Programmes with Sex Workers Implementing Comprehensive HIV/STI Programmes with | Page 87
3 Community-led Services
• Sustainability: Safe spaces can be made financially sustainable when managed by the community,
for example, if the community rents out the space to the programme on a limited basis. Some
community groups have developed catering services for events at safe spaces as a form of income
generation that is managed directly by the community.
Box 3.8
Safe spaces for everyone
When resources are limited, a single safe space may need to serve a number of groups of sex workers,
such as women, men, transgender individuals, younger and older sex workers. Events should be
designed to offer specific resources for groups that identify differently. It may be helpful to offer each
group an exclusive regular meeting time or times each week. When multiple groups are using the same
space, the leadership of the space should be ready to manage possible conflict between groups and
ensure that each group has fair access to resources.
3.3.2 Other activities in the safe space
Safe spaces may offer a range of activities and services to suit the specific needs of the communities
they are serving. Offering a wide range of services may increase community participation in the safe
space and ultimately help make it more sustainable. Examples include:
• classes on beauty tips specific to different groups (female sex workers and transgender sex
workers)
• classes in literacy, numeracy, information technology, nutrition and dance
• celebrations of festivals and holidays
• a simple meal or nutritious food to take away
• walk-in general health exam
• showers and laundry facilities
• lockers to store belongings while community members are working
• sleeping areas
• phone-charging stations
• use of the computer and Internet
• remaining open 24 hours a day
• crèches (child care) for children of sex workers.
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