Following the last Sunday Market, we found Rickmansworth residents are worried about an increase in break-ins, squatters and manipulative ‘Cuckooing’ or ‘Elder Abuse’ where vulnerable, elderly people have been targetted by drug addicts who charm/groom into staying at victims homes and eventually take over victims homes and property including jewellery, finances and even cars!
Be wary of people feigning need or crises – point them to the authorities for help. It is not your responsibility to help them. Do not let them stay in your home. They are pretending to be your friend.
If you or your family/friends have been affected by this kind of manipulation, please contact:
- 24-Hour Safeguarding Hotline: Call 0300 123 4042 (available day or night to report an adult at risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation).
- General Enquiries: The same number (0300 123 4042) is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM for non-urgent care assessments and advice.
- Online Reporting: If you prefer not to call, you can submit a secure form via the Hertfordshire County Council Portal.
- Specialist Advice: The UK charity Hourglass (formerly Action on Elder Abuse) offers a confidential helpline at 0808 808 8141 specifically for older people facing
If you witness a crime (violence, break-in or squatting) please contact:
1. Report Anonymously
If you want to report information about a violent crime, break-in, or illegal activity but do not want to give your name or be involved in a police investigation, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers UK online or call them free on 0800 555 111.
2. Call 101 or Report Online: Non-Emergencies
If the crime has already happened, the suspects have left, or there is no immediate danger to life or property, you should report it as a non-emergency. This includes discovering a break-in after the fact or discovering an established, quiet squatting situation.
- Phone: Call 101 to speak to the Hertfordshire Constabulary control room.
- Online Reporting: You can log the crime, upload descriptions, and track updates directly via the Hertfordshire Constabulary Online Portal.
3. Call 999: Active Emergencies
You must call 999 immediately if you witness a crime in progress or if there is an immediate risk of harm. This includes:
- Violence: An active physical assault, a fight, or a situation where someone is being threatened with immediate violence or weapons.
- Break-ins: An ongoing burglary, someone actively forcing entry into a home or business, or suspects fleeing the scene right now.
- Squatting with Aggravation: While squatting in a residential property is illegal in the UK, you should call 999 if the individuals forced entry by breaking windows/doors right in front of you, or if they are behaving aggressively or violently toward neighbors.
Upcoming events:
Care for Carers monthly talks with RDRA Radfield Home Care, in partnership with RDRA. Join us for friendly, informal talks designed to inform, support and empower our local community. All are welcome. For dates and times, visit: rickmansworthresidents.org/Care-for-Carers.
