Relationships can start in a variety of places but NEVER forget to think about your personal safety. Here are just a few tips to stay safe!

• Don't reveal too much personal information about yourself when you first meet someone e.g. your home address, work details etc. Give yourself time to discover exactly who you are dealing with and whether they can be trusted.
• If you agree to call a stranger remember that your number will be revealed to that person unless you purposely withhold it. Both BT and Virgin Media enable you to do this by preceding any phone number with 141. Other telephone/mobile companies offer similar services some of which can be access via your phone (contact them for details).
• When arranging your first meet choose a public place. Do not agree to meet anywhere isolated or unfamiliar as you could put yourself at risk of an attack.
• Before meeting a stranger always try and tell a friend or someone you can confide in. Give them as much detail about the person and your plans with them (e.g. name, phone number, description, location and time of meet etc.). If you are unable to tell anyone consider writing this information down and leaving it in a place where IF something were to happen to you it would be possible to trace your whereabouts.
• Inviting someone home? Hide tempting pocketsize objects, which could get stolen (e.g. money, credit cards, car keys etc.). Also try never to give the impression that you live alone - mention you live with a flat mate or are expecting friends later - anything to deter a person who might be intending to rob, drug or assault you.

One last word of advice - always have the attitude that someone is not to be trusted until otherwise proven. If things start off badly take that as a warning!

If you have been attacked or witnessed a homophobic crime it is vital that you report the incident quickly. Click here for more information on what to do.