Cuckooing is a serious form of exploitation. It happens when criminals take over the home of a vulnerable person—often by force, threats or manipulation—and use it to carry out illegal activities, like dealing drugs.
It’s named after the cuckoo bird, which lays its eggs in other birds’ nests and pushes the rightful owners out. In cuckooing, a person’s home is taken over, leaving them feeling unsafe, scared, or even homeless.
Who Is at Risk?
People who are vulnerable in any way may be targeted by gangs or drug dealers. This includes:
- People who use drugs or alcohol
- Older adults
- People with physical or mental health needs
- Adults living in poverty
- Single parents
- Sex workers
These individuals may be manipulated, threatened or offered drugs or money in exchange for access to their home. In some cases, they are forced to leave altogether, while the perpetrators continue to operate from the property.
Signs of Cuckooing
It’s not always easy to spot, but there are some red flags to look out for:
- A sudden increase in visitors, especially at strange hours
- A spike in vehicles or bikes outside the property
- New or suspicious people hanging around
- Visible drug use or paraphernalia
- More anti-social behaviour in the area
- The resident is rarely seen or seems withdrawn
- Strangers acting like they live at the address
- Litter and mess building up outside
- The resident seen driving groups of people they don’t appear to know
You Are Not Alone
Victims of cuckooing are often scared to speak out—but you are not to blame. This is exploitation, and help is available.
At Wirral Ways, we understand how frightening this situation can be. Whether you’re directly affected or worried about someone else, we’re here to listen and support you.
The 7 Stages of Cuckooing
Cuckooing doesn’t happen all at once. Criminals often follow a pattern:
Maintain control – through threats, violence or manipulation
Select the victim – often someone vulnerable, isolated or struggling
Gain information – asking personal questions, finding out routines
Build a connection – pretending to be helpful, friendly or supportive
Fill a need – offering drugs, money, friendship or support
Prime the target – gaining trust while gradually increasing control
Take over the property – moving in, bringing others, taking the keys
What to Do If You’re Worried
If you think someone is being exploited through cuckooing—or if you feel at risk yourself—it’s important to act.
🚨 Call the police on 101
🕵️ Report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org
You do not have to give your name, and your report could protect someone who’s in danger.