Cuckooing - Could you be at risk?

What is cuckooing?

Cuckooing is when a drug dealer, or a person they might know, exploits a person with vulnerabilities by taking over and using their home to store, sell or use drugs.

How does it start?

A drug dealer, or someone known to you, will try to make friends with you.

They may offer you free or cheap drugs and in return they will ask if they can take drugs or meet other drug dealers at your home or keep drugs at your house.

They might ask if they can stay with you or move in with you or invite others to stay without your permission.

You may be threatened physically or verbally if you do not allow this to happen.

The risks of cuckooing

If drugs are found in your property by police, there is a risk you will end up being interviewed or arrested.

You could lose access to your benefits or be evicted by your housing provider. Your property could also be subject to a closure order, which would mean no one would be allowed entry to your home for up to six months.

We would like you to engage with police immediately if you think you are a victim of cuckooing so we can work with the Specialist Outreach Team to keep you safe.

I’m at risk – what do I do?

In an emergency, always call 999.

If you are worried about cuckooing, you can report it online https://www.surrey.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

If you don’t want to give your name, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Get further support

Call the Catalyst Specialist Outreach Team’s Cuckoo Support Service on 07584 689517 or 07776 137237.

For practical advice and support call Citizens’ Advice Bureau on 03444 111 444

To talk through any issues or concerns call the Samaritans’ free 24/7 helpline on 116 123 or email [email protected]