Meeting safely, staying healthy
Casual should still be safe. Simple rules, and who to call if you need help.
Tell a friend
Tell someone you trust where you're going and who you're meeting. Check in with them before, during and after. It's simple and it works.
Source: Suzy Lamplugh Trust: Personal safety and online dating
Meet in public first
Make your first meeting somewhere public, like a bar or a cafe. Keep your home address and full name to yourself until you feel comfortable. You can decide on the next step later.
Source: NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (Right Decisions): Online dating
Use your own transport
Make your own way there and back. That way you can leave whenever you like. Don't feel pressured to go home with anyone.
Video call first
A quick video call before you meet helps you check the chemistry, and that they're who they say they are. Anyone who keeps making excuses not to video chat is a red flag.
Trust your gut
If something feels off, it probably is. You can end a date early, and you don't owe anyone anything. Stop contact and report anyone who makes you uncomfortable.
Look after yourself
Sexual health
Free, confidential services. Regular tests are part of casual dating done well.
NHS sexual health clinics
Free, confidential clinics open to everyone for STI tests and treatment, HIV testing, contraception, PrEP and PEP. The national sexual health helpline is 0300 123 7123.
Visit NHS sexual health clinicsBrook
A national sexual health charity. Its service finder lists Brook and other sexual health centres in England. Many of its services focus on people under 25.
Visit BrookCDC GetTested
Find nearby places for HIV, STI and hepatitis testing. Many clinics offer free or low-cost, confidential tests.
Visit CDC GetTestedReport it
If something goes wrong
Report Fraud
The police service for reporting fraud and cyber crime in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It replaced Action Fraud in December 2025. Report online or call 0300 123 2040.
Go to Report FraudPolice Scotland
In Scotland, report fraud to Police Scotland by calling 101. Call 999 in an emergency.
Go to Police ScotlandFederal Trade Commission
Report romance scams to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Its advice page explains the warning signs and what to do if you've paid.
Go to Federal Trade CommissionAnd tell us: press Report on any profile. A person on our team reads every report.