Reports suggest Greenwich has been identified by the Government as a target area for its crackdown on anti-social behaviour. But is yob culture really taking over? GLENN EBREY investigates.

LAST week's national media carried reports of comments about anti-social behaviour made by new home secretary John Reid.

They said Mr Reid is determined to enforce the Government's much-heralded Respect agenda.

He identified 10 areas as being the worst for anti-social behaviour and rated Greenwich alongside the likes of Liverpool, Nottingham and Hackney.

The Home Office has since sought to play down the reports but it has reopened the debate on the issue.

Is the problem really worse than it used to be and how should it be dealt with?

Joy Cunningham, 70, who leads the Abbey Wood Residents' Forum, has led efforts to engage with young people in her community.

Six years ago she was instrumental in setting up the C2K youth centre in Penmon Road, Abbey Wood.

This gives youths a positive outlet where they can meet people and take part in organised activities.

Mrs Cunningham, of Sewell Road, says the centre has had a big impact but anti-social behaviour is still a massive problem.

She said: "It is getting worse. Young people around here are getting attached to drugs, knives and gang culture.

"The youngsters lack respect. It has got to the stage where people are frightened to go out at night."

Conservative leader David Cameron recently pointed the finger at the influence rap music and video games had on youngsters.

But according to Mrs Cunningham, the problems lie much closer to home.

She added: "I think a lot of blame has to lie with parents. They have a responsibility to keep an eye on what their kids are getting up to."

Greenwich and Woolwich MP Nick Raynsford says the introduction of Anti-social Behaviour Orders (Asbos) has been a positive step.

He said: "They are not the only answer but they send out a very powerful message to anyone who is tempted to misbehave."

Mr Raynsford, a former Government minister, also believes the carrot is just as important as the stick.

He added: "Young people need more things to do. Diversionary activities are vital, particularly during the summer.

"It is not just a question of adopting punitive methods. There needs to be a balanced approach."

Darren Plant runs Eltham-based junior football team Beacons FC with around 20 other volunteers.

He said: "When I read about youths hanging around in gangs it really makes my blood boil.

"We take the kids off the streets, teach them a bit of discipline and tell them to respect people."

A Greenwich Council spokesman said: "There are positive steps we can take such as providing recreational facilities for young people and tackling problems associated with illegal drug use.

"However, we need to ensure our main focus remains protecting the majority of people who are decent, law-abiding citizens."

OUT TO GAIN RESPECT

THE Government's Respect agenda is set to lead the fight against anti-social behaviour.

It was introduced by Tony Blair in January to "deter bad behaviour and invest in good behaviour".

Under the new policy on-the-spot fines of £100 can be issued to people misbehaving in public.

More Police Community Support Officers will be brought in to help deter crime by increasing the presence of officers on the streets.

Launching the policy with a keynote speech, Mr Blair promised: "We will eradicate the scourge of anti-social behaviour and restore respect to the communities of Britain."