Our recently completed project, Behind Closed Doors: Cuckooing Hazard Perception Test, is a powerful example of how immersive digital experiences can build awareness, sharpen decision-making, and ultimately protect some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

What is Cuckooing?

Cuckooing is a form of exploitation in which criminals take over the home of a vulnerable person for illegal purposes—often linked to drug trafficking or other organised crime. It is a hidden crime, occurring quite literally behind closed doors, and can be difficult to detect. Frontline workers such as housing officers, social care professionals, and the police need to spot subtle warning signs quickly in order to intervene and safeguard those at risk.

Innovation with Purpose

Commissioned by Dr Laura Bainbridge and her colleagues at the School of Law, University of Leeds, this project set out to create a training tool that would empower professionals to recognise and respond to the signs of cuckooing more effectively. Peel X developed an interactive Hazard Perception Test that simulates real-world scenarios frontline staff may encounter. Using a branching, film-based approach, learners are asked to observe, assess, and respond to potential indicators of exploitation.

Drawing inspiration from driver hazard perception training, the test places participants in a realistic environment where their observational skills are challenged and their choices lead to different outcomes. By engaging with the tool, professionals can strengthen their ability to recognise red flags and refine their decision-making under pressure.

Co-Creation and Realism

Authenticity was central to the project. We worked closely with safeguarding experts, lived-experience voices, and professional actors to ensure the scenarios felt both credible and impactful.

The film sequences were scripted and directed by James Stone, whose work brought clarity, realism, and nuance to the scenarios. Filming and editing were expertly delivered by Orillo (York), ensuring the finished test was both visually compelling and emotionally powerful.

Alongside the film-based test, Sarah Collet from SBC Studio designed the accompanying website – cuckooing.co.uk – creating an accessible and engaging digital platform for both trainers and learners.

Training with Lasting Impact

The Behind Closed Doors Hazard Perception Test is now being rolled out as part of training packages for frontline teams. Early feedback shows that participants value the opportunity to practice their observational skills in a safe, controlled setting—giving them greater confidence when facing similar situations in real life.

Dr Laura Bainbridge reflected on the collaboration:

“Cuckooing is a hidden crime that devastates lives, yet the signs can be incredibly subtle and easy to miss. By working with Peel X, we’ve been able to create a training tool that feels realistic, challenging, and ultimately empowering for those on the frontline. Our hope is that this project helps professionals intervene earlier and safeguard those most at risk.”

For Peel X, this project reinforces our commitment to harnessing digital storytelling and interactive technology to make a tangible social impact. From heritage interpretation to safeguarding innovation, we are proud to use creativity and technology to tell the stories that matter and support the people who need it most.

Credits

Commissioning & Research: Dr Laura Bainbridge and colleagues, School of Law – University of Leeds
Script & Direction: James Stone
Website Design: Sarah Collet, SBC Studio – cuckooing.co.uk
Filming & Editing: Orillo, York
Professional Actors
Production, Locations, Set Design, Creative Direction, Account Management & Delivery: Peel X Team

More like this

A Win For Smart Docklands & Peel X at the Public Sector Digital Transformation Awards

An achievement celebrating Smart Cities Urban Quest; a citywide digital experience showcasing Dublin...

When Stories Leap Off the Page: The AR Journey of Meet Our Mothers

A Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture Project.

Peel Honoured at York & North Yorkshire Top 100 Business Awards

Peel Honoured with Creative Sector Award and Ranks 13th in York & North Yorkshire Top 100 Businesses...

Peel X and Aardman Announce Strategic Collaboration

The Peel X team are absolutely delighted to be working in partnership with multi-award-winning anima...

Pickering Pixie Trail Project Launched

The Pickering Pixie Trail is now available to explore on the Discover North Yorkshire app.

Gamechanger Team Invited to Present at National County Lines Coordination Centre (NCLCC) Symposium

Gamechanger MD Jessica Wright and Operations Director Greg Brookes-Clayton had the privilege of pres...

More News