Simple steps to stay safe when meeting new people
Sprout connects you with parents nearby — people you may not have met before. Most meetups are friendly and positive, but a few simple habits help keep you and your children safe.
For first meetups, always choose a busy, public location — a café, park, library, or children’s centre. Avoid meeting at someone’s home or inviting someone to yours until you know them well.
Let a trusted friend or family member know who you’re meeting, where, and when. Share the other parent’s profile name and arrange to check in afterwards.
Don’t share your exact home address with someone you haven’t met in person. Your postcode area is enough for planning a meetup. Be cautious about posting photos that reveal your home or children’s school.
If something feels off — pressure to meet privately, inconsistent stories, or any discomfort — you can cancel or leave at any time. You owe no one an explanation, and you can block or report the person from their profile.
Call 999 (or 112) right away. For non-urgent concerns about a child’s safety, contact the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 or your local social services. These services are independent of Sprout.
If someone makes you uncomfortable, sends inappropriate messages, or behaves in a way that feels unsafe, you can report them directly from their profile or any post and message. You can also block them — they won’t be able to see or contact you afterwards.
For anything urgent, contact the police on 999. For non-urgent child safety concerns, the NSPCC helpline is 0808 800 5000.