Shift Calgary

Shift provides support services to adults currently and formerly working in the sex industry to improve their quality of life and achieve individualized goals.

Shift has a harm reduction and rights based approach to sex work. This means that the safety and human rights of sex workers are our focus. We recognize that sex work is a choice for many in the industry, and we respect the rights of adults to make this choice.  We also recognize that not everyone has active choice in sex work. For some, outside forces such as poverty or exploitation can force people into situations where they don’t have control. Shift’s services will meet you where you are at – whether you want to stay in the industry, get out of the industry or anything in-between.

Shift’s services are non-judgmental, free, and easy to access.  We work with you to identify your goals and needs, and then support you with obtaining the tools and resources needed to achieve them. These supports can be things like counselling, education, advocacy, and skills development - or practical supports such as housing, referrals, food, and emergency funding.  We can also work with you around sex work specific issues such as obtaining escort/massage licensing, managing personal relationships, working safely (date screening, condom negotiation), and exiting the industry. 





Shift Program Services

• Supportive counseling: Managing personal relationships, work/life balance, addiction(s), anxiety/stress/depression management, referrals (therapeutic)
• Short-term (crisis) or long-term (case management) support
• Free safer sex supplies Information and resources: Sex work, community resources, sex work publications Employment and retraining support: Resume building, career exploration, interview skills, education/training planning support
• Advocacy: Social benefits, child services, etc.
• Court support and legal information (referrals)
• Escort/Massage/Entertainment licensing information and support
• Sexual health information; HIV/STI testing referrals
• Working safely: Bad Date reporting, date screening, condom negotiation, laws/bylaw information
• Practical supports: Basic needs – laundry, food, toiletries, emergency funding, etc.
• Referrals: Mental health support, addiction treatment, housing, financial support, etc.
• Holistic: Complementary therapies (massage, acupuncture), vitamins, Shift volunteer opportunities
• Education: Community presentations about sex work and related issues for individuals, partners, and allies