Initial Contact & Communication

• Limited Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal information like home addresses, workplace locations, or other identifiable details until you’re comfortable.
• Use Neutral Email: Consider using a separate, neutral email address for matrimonial correspondence, different from your personal or work email.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your intuition. Don’t feel pressured to continue a conversation if you feel uncomfortable.

First Meeting

• Public Place: Always meet in a public place for the first time, like a café, park, or shopping center where there are plenty of people.
• Inform Someone: Let a trusted friend or family member know where you’re going, with whom, and when you expect to return.
• Own Transport: Have your own transportation arranged, so you’re not dependent on the other person for a ride.

Ongoing Communication

• Digital Caution: Be cautious about sharing personal photos or intimate details, especially early on.
• Background Check: Consider doing a gentle background check, especially if you feel there might be inconsistencies. This doesn’t mean invading someone’s privacy, but a basic Google search can sometimes be revealing.

Be Financially Cautious

• Avoid Financial Transactions: Avoid sending money or sharing bank details.
• Gifts: Be cautious if asked for extravagant gifts or financial assistance early in the relationship.

Trust but Verify

• References: If comfortable, consider asking for references or introductions to family or friends after several interactions.
• Attend Group Events: Participate in community or group events together before private, individual meetings.

Understand Boundaries

• Respect Boundaries: Everyone has their comfort zone. Always respect boundaries, whether they’re physical, emotional, or digital.
• Open Communication: Feel free to voice any concerns or unease. An understanding partner will appreciate and respect your feelings.

Follow-Up Meetings

• Vary Locations: For the first few meetings, try different public locations.
• Daytime Meetings: It’s advisable to meet during the daytime for the first few meetings.

Privacy Maintenance

• Protect Personal Data: Even after the first meeting, be wary of sharing personal data like PIN numbers, passwords, or other confidential details.

Seek Feedback

• Talk to Friends & Family: Share your experiences with trusted friends or family and seek feedback. Sometimes, an outside perspective can be enlightening.
• Stay Informed & Updated: Regularly check for updated safety guidelines, and participate in any safety workshops or further seminars provided by the Matrimonial Service.

Remember, while these guidelines provide a safety framework, each individual’s circumstances are unique. It’s essential to always trust your instincts and prioritise your safety.