What is it?

Cuckooing is where a person or group take over an individuals’ home and use the property for exploitation, usually as a base for drug dealing or other illegal activities. Often those who take advantage of a person or their home will seem friendly at first, and then start to use scare tactics, bullying or violent behaviour.

Who is at risk?

Anyone could be potentially cuckooed; however, some are more at risk, such as:

  • Someone with past or present substance misuse
  • Someone with physical or mental health problems
  • Someone with learning difficulties
  • Victims of domestic abuse
  • Someone in financial poverty.

Spot the signs 

Signs that someone may be subject to ‘cuckooing’ include, but are not limited to:

  • An increase in people entering and leaving a property, at various times of the day/night
  • An increase in cars/bikes outside
  • An increase in anti-social behaviour
  • Damage to a front door, or the door often left open
  • Unknown visitors pressing buzzers to gain access to the building
  • You haven’t seen the person living there recently, or, when you have, there is a change in behaviour - they may often seem anxious or distracted.

What to do?

If you believe this is happening to you or someone you know, please contact the Police, as this is a criminal offence. Then please contact us to speak to our Intensive Housing Support Team. Our priority is to ensure people feel safe in their home. 

Reports can also be made anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.