Research

National Ugly Mugs is an organisation informed by the lived experiences sex workers.

The input and feedback from our members drives our services and advocacy work. We are always open to hearing feedback or suggestions regarding NUM’s work and direction. We often run consultations, surveys and research projects that help us focus our support where it is needed.

Previous research projects at NUM have led to improvements in accessibility, expansion of services throughout Covid-19 and beyond and the ability to advocate for sex workers at a national level.

All research we conduct at NUM is confidential. We never collect share any personal information from our members and will always ensure you are fully informed before agreeing to take part. We ask for information about gender, race and culture, age, type of sex work, information about dependents and if members hold other jobs or go to school in order to make stronger arguments for rights, safety and resources; you do not need to disclose any information that you are not comfortable sharing. All research is voluntary.

Sometimes we work in collaboration with other organisations or academic institutions on research projects with the consent of sex workers. We have a stringent process for researchers wishing to work with us to ensure that we only work with those who are in line with NUM’s mission and values. We partner with researchers who are transparent about the aims of their research studies and have outcomes that will increase safety and improve the lives of sex workers.

If you are a sex worker in the UK and would be interested in hearing about our current research or participating in a project, sign up to our mailing list here:

If you have any suggestions or feedback for NUM, please contact us here.

If you are a sex-working academic, a postgraduate student or a professional researcher and would like to work with us, please contact admin@nationaluglymugs.org