Cuckooing:
The Hidden Form of Exploitation
When a home becomes a trap, not a haven
St Giles Trust is at the forefront of tackling cuckooing through direct support, awareness raising, and frontline intervention.
As a leading charity fighting criminal exploitation, we work with victims of cuckooing to help them reclaim their safety, rebuild their lives, and prevent future exploitation. By providing specialist support, housing advocacy, and training for professionals, we’re protecting the most vulnerable and restoring safety to communities across the UK.
What Is Cuckooing?
Cuckooing, or Home Takeovers, is a form of exploitation where criminal gangs take over the homes of vulnerable people, often those living alone, with disabilities, struggling with addiction, or mental health issues, and use the property as a base to store, deal, or manufacture drugs.
Like the cuckoo bird, which lays its eggs in another bird’s nest, gangs infiltrate homes under the guise of friendship or support, only to trap occupants in a cycle of fear and control. Victims may be threatened, assaulted, or coerced into silence, allowing the gang to use their home any way they see fit.
Who Is at Risk?
Cuckooing targets those who are already vulnerable. Common risk factors include:
- Living alone, isolated from family and services
- History of or exiting substance use
- People living in social housing
- Mental or physical health conditions
- Existing debts or isolation from family and services
Cuckooing can happen to anyone. But it thrives where trust is exploited and support is lacking.
The Impact of Cuckooing
On Individuals:
- Severe mental and emotional trauma
- Exposure to violence, abuse, or threats
- Loss of control over one’s home
- Increased risk of eviction or criminal charges
On Communities:
- Increased drug activity and anti-social behaviour
- Fear and tension among neighbours
- Reduced trust in local housing and social services
Cuckooing doesn't just affect the victim - it destabilises entire neighbourhoods.
Key Facts About Cuckooing
In the year ending March 2024, over 50,000 sharp object offences were reported in England and Wales. The reality behind those numbers:
Between 25 November and 1 December 2024, saw 853 suspected cuckooed properties visited.
Between 25 November and 1 December 2024, saw 853 suspected cuckooed properties visited. (Crime and Policing Bill: Child criminal exploitation and 'cuckooing' factsheet - GOV.UK)
Recorded instances of cuckooing in London have risen from 79 in 2018 to 316 in 2022
 (BBC)
How St Giles Trust Is Making a Difference
We work with victims of cuckooing and those at risk of exploitation, offering non-judgemental, trauma-informed support.
Specialist Intervention
Our team helps victims reclaim control of their homes, liaising with police, housing, and support services to ensure long-term safety.
Awareness and Training
We educate professionals—social workers, housing officers, community leaders—on recognising and responding to cuckooing.
Community Outreach
Our outreach teams build trust with those who may not engage with traditional services, offering support on the victim’s terms.
Recognising the Signs of Cuckooing
- Unusual visitors at all hours
- A sudden change in someone’s routine or behaviour
- Signs of drug use or dealing from a property
- The occupant seeming fearful, anxious, or secretive
- Unexplained damage or mess in the home
Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s worth reporting.
Why Everyone Should Care
Cuckooing is often hidden in plain sight. Many victims feel too ashamed or scared to speak out. Others don’t even realise they are being exploited.
Raising awareness of cuckooing is essential to ending it. When we understand the signs, we can take action sooner - and protect those most at risk.
No one should feel unsafe in their own home.
Need Support?
If you or someone you know is affected by cuckooing:
đź“ž Helpline: 020 7708 8000
📧 Email: info@stgilestrust.org.uk
🌍 Website: How to get support – St Giles Trust
Together, We Can End Cuckooing
With compassion, awareness, and support, we can dismantle exploitation where it starts—in the heart of people’s homes. Join us in restoring safety and dignity to those most at risk.