Cuckoo-ing is a term used when people involved in organised crime target someone they think is vulnerable. Criminals will try to gain trust and will try to access to their home, usually to sell drugs. This is often via a 'friend of a friend', who they may not know well, but who may offer money, drugs or alcohol to stay on their sofa for a night, because they say they are homeless, or have nowhere to go. Once they gain trust, they may even start to invite their friends to visit.

You may have tried to get them to leave, but have been unable to do so, because they convince you otherwise, or offer you more money, alcohol, or drugs to allow them in. They may also make threats against you, or your family.

It is important that you get help if you feel this is happening to you. You could get support from Police to try and stop this from happening. Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own home and support and advice is available.

Who to contact

If you think you may be a victim of cucko-oing, or you think someone else is, please report this to:

• your local Police – you can contact them via 101, or by attending the station
• the South Devon and Dartmoor Community Safety Partnership via email at communitysafety@teignbridge.gov.uk
• your local housing options team 
• Crimestoppers who will take all information anonymously if you do not wish to give your details and just want advice or to make a report. You can contact them on 0800 555 111