One Step Up – Sex Workers Project
Donor: Palmera Australia
Duration: 12 months (January 2025 – December 2025)
Lead Partner: SLCDF
Geographical Focus: Colombo, Gampaha, Puttalam, and Kurunegala Districts – Western and North Western Provinces, Sri Lanka
Overview
One Step Up is a development initiative implemented by the Sri Lanka Centre for Development Facilitation (SLCDF) in partnership with Palmera Australia. The project seeks to enhance the dignity, safety, and economic empowerment of female sex workers through a holistic approach that addresses stigma, strengthens access to essential services, and promotes sustainable livelihood opportunities. By engaging with communities, service providers, and civil society organizations, One Step Up advocates for inclusion, protection, and empowerment of one of the most marginalized groups in society.
Why This Makes a Difference
Female sex workers in Sri Lanka face deep-rooted stigma, social exclusion, and systemic barriers that prevent them from accessing healthcare, justice, and livelihood opportunities. This project responds by creating safe spaces for dialogue, protection, and empowerment—ensuring that sex workers are treated with dignity and equality. Through awareness, advocacy, and livelihood support, One Step Up contributes to breaking cycles of discrimination and poverty, helping women regain control over their lives and futures.
Impact That Counts (By 2025)
Empowered Women: 5,000 female sex workers across four districts gain access to essential services, rights awareness, and livelihood options
Children Supported: Children of sex workers benefit from improved care, education, and protection
Economic Upliftment: 200 vulnerable families supported through alternative and supplementary livelihood programmes
Stigma Reduction: Enhanced public awareness and sensitivity among community leaders, service providers, and CSOs
Organizational Strengthening: Capacity of CBOs and peer networks improved for advocacy and sustainable support systems
Safety Ensured: Implementation of safeguarding and rights-based interventions to protect sex workers’ well-being
To build a society where sex workers live with dignity, equality, and security—empowered to pursue sustainable livelihoods, access justice, and be recognized as integral members of their communities.