Welcome to SE23.
Of course there are problems in SE23 but I would think no more than most areas in London and a lot less than some.
Not to sure what happened yesterday but I believe that is relatively rare ( or let us hope so )
The Bird in The Hand is the lowest common denominator pub in SE23 , every area has one. At least they are all in one place.

Parking in the area you mention not great but not terrible.

Best wishes