Date safe

If you’re considering a meetup with someone, it’s important to do so in a safe, reassuring, and respectful way. We’re here to help you set some guidelines. Before, during, and after each date.

Before your date: create an atmosphere of trust

Take the time to get to know each other online: the first step to a safe date.

Even if the urge to meet up is super strong, there’s no rush. Give yourself some time to chat, decide if the person seems reliable, balanced, and respectful.

• Chat on the app for as long as you need: happn in-app messaging is made for this. It allows you to control and protect your personal information (such as your phone number or email address). There’s no need to exchange digits just yet.

• Plan a date in a public place that is accessible and busy: a coffee shop, bar, park or cultural space: choose a spot where you’re comfortable and won’t feel isolated. Avoid places that are too far out of the way or hard to get to.

• Let a trusted friend know where you are: share the name of the person you’re meeting with a friend or family member, text them the place and time of your date and when you think you’ll be heading home. You might even agree to send a message after your date to reassure them.

During the date: remember, you’re free to do you

You’re here to have a good time. And your well-being is a priority. Listen to yourself, trust yourself, and always give yourself the possibility of leaving.

• Keep your telephone charged and handy: make sure you have enough battery to call, text, or use a ride service if necessary.

• Be attentive to how you’re feeling: if you feel awkward, uncomfortable or pressured in any way, you’re allowed to say “no” and leave your date or get some distance. It’s never too early to leave, and you don’t owe anyone any explanations.

• There are no obligations: a date is not a contract of any kind. You are free to set your own limits, decline an invitation, slow things down, or interrupt a conversation.

Your physical and emotional safety always come first.

After the date: take care of yourself

A date, even a good one, can bring up doubts, questions, or other complicated feelings.

It’s important to be able to talk about it, get some perspective, and if necessary, take action.

• Share your feelings with a friend: talking with someone you trust can help you express how you’re feeling and reinforce your feeling of safety.

• Alert us to any inappropriate behavior: even if you’re not sure whether you “should” do it, you can always report a profile on the app. Your report is confidential, and our team is trained to take user concerns seriously and treat them with care.

• Trust your intuition: if something made you uncomfortable, that’s a legitimate feeling. Even if there is no proof or certainty, your discomfort is enough to merit action.

And going forward...

The best dates are founded on a climate of respect, trust, and freedom. You’re allowed to take your time, set boundaries, and say yes... only if you want to. Real life can be beautiful when it starts out safe 💙