Prostitution and Exploitation of Prostitution
Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.
AI-generated summary — not verbatim. This is a plain-English digest, not the official CPS text. It may omit detail or fall out of date. Do not rely on it for a charging decision — read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk and check the current legislation.
This prosecution guidance outlines evidential considerations, public interest factors, and the selection of charges associated with prostitution and exploitation. It emphasizes the need for careful evaluation of the roles of those involved in prostitution, particularly in the context of victim support and potential prosecutions. Key offences include modern slavery, controlling prostitution for gain, and causing or inciting prostitution. The guidance aims to balance enforcement with the support of vulnerable individuals in prostitution.
Key points
- Prosecutions should prioritize public interest, particularly against violence and exploitation of prostitutes.
- Assist in developing routes out of prostitution rather than prosecuting low culpability offenders.
- Modern slavery charges are essential for those who direct or control prostitution.
- Consider alternatives to prosecution for those selling sex. Support services should be encouraged.
- Evaluation of public interest is crucial in prosecuting brothel-keeping offences.
- Review case strategies involving prostitution to ensure appropriate legal actions are taken.
Public-interest factors
- Prosecution necessary for serious offences against prostitutes.
- Consider role involvement in prostitution for public interest in prosecution.
- Encouraging routes out of prostitution is paramount.
- Use of diversionary approaches over enforcement is advised.
- Public interest varies significantly based on culpability.
- Victim support is critical to pursuing prosecutions.
This is a factual digest of guidance published by the Crown Prosecution Service. Digested 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the CPS.