There are a number of potential signs to look out for and many of these are the same as other forms of exploitation and abuse.  

People may be unwilling to report cuckooing for a number of reasons including fear of repercussions, eviction, criminal proceedings, intimidation, accrued drug debts or because they benefit in some way, such as free drugs or from friendships they don’t recognise as exploitative.

It is important to remain curious, ask questions, be aware of the impact of trauma and coercion on what people say, and maintain a victim-centred approach.  

• The individual being isolated or withdrawn, which is uncharacteristic for them
• Lack of funds and no food in the house
• Change in behaviour such as being scared or an increase in drugs or alcohol misuse by the individual
• Appears depressed or signs of self-neglect (unkempt)
• An increase in the number of vehicles visiting the property. This includes new vehicles or an increase in the number of taxis or hire cars
• An increase in the number of people coming and going from the property, especially late at night and the early hours of the morning
• Disengagement from support services, this can include a reduction in the number of health and social care workers visiting the individual
• An increase in anti-social behaviour in and around the property
• Sudden accumulation of rent arrears and other debts with no history of defaulting on payment 
• Individual may be in debt or start selling their items or have their utilities (gas/electricity) disconnected 
• Possessions in the property may become sparse
• The individual may become involved in crime with no previous history of offending
• The property may fall into an obvious state of disrepair
• Other professionals visiting may be aware of unidentified people being in the individual’s home
• Rehearsed statement – ‘I am fine, no they are not using my property. They are my carers/friends’
• The individual is working for free for the person alleged to be causing harm in order to repay a perceived debt
• Repeat requests from the individual for e.g. repairs or complaining and then withdrawing the complaint
• Complaints from neighbours regarding drugs and/or alcohol or anti-social behaviour
• Individual has previously been exploited
• Upon visiting, the individual may speak to you with the door ajar (half closed) showing an urgency to end the conversation