Liverpool City Council’s Public Health team and partners share a Valentine’s message for young people, with a difference!
This Valentine’s Day, Liverpool City Council’s Public Health team is reminding young people that love, connection and intimacy come in lots of forms, and physical intimacy doesn’t have to be one of them.
With pressure from social media, TV and peers, it can sometimes feel like Valentine’s Day is all about one thing. But for many young people, especially those aged 15 – 19, relationships are about trust, fun, friendship and feeling seen.
So, this Valentine’s, we’re flipping the script!
We picked the top 15 ways to show you care – all tested, approved and genuinely appreciated by young people.
- Listening properly
Phone down. Eye contact on. Remembering the details later.
- Sending a random “thinking of you” message
No reason. No agenda. Just vibes.
- Respecting boundaries, every single time
Saying “I get it” and meaning it is one of the biggest green flags going.
- Sharing music, playlists or TikToks
Basically modern-day love letters.
- Showing up when things are tough
Being there beats grand gestures every time.
- Laughing together
Inside jokes and laughter are better than everything.
- Walking someone home safely
Caring is attractive. Always has been. No agenda.
- Supporting their goals and passions
Helping their dreams instead of competing with them.
- Spending time together without pressure
Hanging out just to hang out? Yes please.
- Complimenting more than just looks
“You’re funny/ kind/ smart” hits different.
- Checking in on their mental health
“How are you really?” can mean a lot.
- Being honest about how you feel
Vulnerability is brave, not awkward.
- Respecting a ‘not yet’ or a ‘not ever’
Real care means no guilt, no pressure.
- Creating memories
Late-night chats, long walks, bus rides – just being there for each other is enough.
- Letting them be themselves
Feeling safe to be you is love.
Affection, but your way!
Public Health Liverpool and our partners want young people to know that:
- You never owe anyone physical intimacy
- Taking things at your own pace is completely normal
- Healthy relationships are built on respect, trust and communication
Valentine’s Day (and every day) should be about choice, confidence and feeling good about yourself, whatever your relationship status.
If you’d like advice on relationships, consent, sexual health or staying safe, confidential support is available both locally and online.
You can visit Axess and their Young Person’s Service for clear, friendly guidance
