Spot the Signs of Cuckooing

Cuckooing Awareness – Help Us Protect Vulnerable Residents

We’re asking our Selby community to stay alert to the signs of cuckooing. 

What Is Cuckooing?

The name comes from how a cuckoo bird lays its eggs in another bird’s nest.

Cuckooing is when criminals invade or take control of someone’s home. The victim can quickly lose control of their own home. Once criminals gain access they may use the home for:

Criminals often choose people who are vulnerable because they are easier to intimidate, coerce or groom.

Cuckooing can happen anywhere, including here in Selby and it often affects people who may be isolated or in need of extra support.

Your awareness can make a real difference.

Look out for:

🔹 A sudden increase in visitors at all hours
🔹 Curtains always closed or windows covered
🔹 New or unfamiliar people coming and going
🔹 The resident appearing anxious, withdrawn, or not in control of their home
🔹 ASB or drug‑related activity near the property

If something feels “not quite right,” trust your instincts.

Report concerns:

• Call 101 (or 999 in an emergency)
• Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

Working together, we can safeguard vulnerable people and disrupt criminal activity in Selby.
 

Your information helps protect our community.