A practical guide for UK members

Meet with care when arranging a local swap

A little planning can help you feel more comfortable. Agree the details beforehand, take your time and choose what feels right for you.

Before and during your meeting

  1. Choose a busy place in daylight

    Where possible, meet in daylight in a busy public place, such as a staffed café or community venue. Agree the exact place and time in advance.

  2. Let someone know your plan

    Tell someone you trust where you are going, when you expect to be back and who you are meeting. Arrange to check in with them afterwards.

  3. Keep personal details private

    Share only the contact details needed to arrange the swap. Keep your home address, passwords, PINs, one-time codes and banking details private.

  4. Check the item before swapping

    Take time to look over the item and confirm it matches what you agreed, including its condition and any parts or accessories. Complete the swap only when you are comfortable.

  5. Trust your instincts

    If something feels wrong, you feel pressured or the arrangements change in a way that concerns you, leave or cancel. You do not need to continue or give a reason.

If a swap has to happen at someone’s home

Consider whether you can meet in public instead. If a home handover is necessary, tell someone the address and your plan, go with someone you trust if you can, and arrange to check in. You can stay outside, decline to enter or cancel if you feel uneasy.

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