Provider—client models of individual outreach and collective behavioural change: the delivery of sexual health promotion among sex workers

Abstract

This paper explores outreach as a method of service delivery among sex workers and critically considers theoretical models of outreach presented by Tim Rhodes. Data are drawn from the experience of outreach delivery by Dorset Working Women's Project and from research among 23 service users via anonymous questionnaire. These data are used to challenge several of Rhodes' arguments. Firstly, the notion that provider-client models of indi vidual outreach fail to identify and respond to consumer need is disputed. Secondly, a range of factors that hinder the implementation of community- oriented models of outreach is examined. This raises the question of how effectively theory can be translated into practice. Thirdly, research findings begin to indicate questions about the notion that provider-client models of individual outreach cannot encourage collective behavioural change. Finally, it is argued that Rhodes' theoretical model leads to a rigid categorisation of type, which is in conflict with the inherently dynamic nature of outreach.