Cuckooing
Cuckooing is a serious issue that can put vulnerable people at risk and disrupt communities. Knowing the signs and what to do can help protect those affected.
- It can involve threats, intimidation, emotional manipulation, and sometimes violence
- Financial exploitation is common – things like running up bills, eating the householder’s food, or pressuring them for money
- It causes distress for the person affected and disruption for neighbours and the wider community
- Increased visitors at unusual times
- Sudden changes in the customer’s behaviour
- Signs of drug use or dealing
- Property damage or neglect
- Cuckooing can affect a wide range of people. However, those most at risk include adults with mental health challenges, learning disabilities, or other cognitive impairments who live alone
- The risk is further increased for individuals who may be experiencing challenges related to substance use or alcohol dependency. This can offer a way in for those seeking to cuckoo a property and reduces the likelihood of the affected individual approaching services for help
- Social isolation is also a significant risk factor for cuckooing i.e. those with limited social networks or support systems or who are simply lonely
There are a few things to look out for that could indicate someone has been cuckooed. They may become increasingly reluctant to let anyone into their home, their appearance may become more dishevelled (people who are cuckooed often have limited access to the amenities in their home) or lose weight. In extreme cases, there may be signs of physical abuse such as bruises.
You may notice that there are lots of people coming and going from their home, including at night, though you might see the householder less frequently than before. A sudden increase in anti-social behaviour linked to the property, particularly coupled with the other signs noted above, is also an indication of cuckooing.
- Keep notes of anything unusual, including dates and times
- Call the police first – they are the lead agency for investigating and taking action
- If the person is one of our residents, we’ll work closely with the police and local authority to support them and provide evidence. This could include helping them feel safe, looking at alternative housing, and assisting agencies if they decide to apply for a closure order (a legal order to temporarily close a property to stop criminal activity)
- If you think a crime is happening and it’s an emergency, call 999 straight away
- Do not confront the individuals involved – this could put you at risk
- Report anonymously: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/
- Police guidance: https://www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/what-we-do/crime-threats/drug-trafficking/county-lines
- Safeguarding adults: https://www.nhs.uk/social-care-and-support/help-from-social-services-and-charities/abuse-and-neglect-adults-at-risk
We know these situations can be worrying and take time to resolve. Our priority is to keep people safe and work with the right agencies to get the best outcome.
We know these situations can be worrying and take time to resolve. Our priority is to keep people safe and work with the right agencies to get the best outcome.
If you’re concerned, please contact our ASB team – we’ll listen, handle your concerns sensitively, and do everything we can to help.
