On Thursday, 23 October 2025, Marie Goldman MP, the Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Women and Equalities and Member of Parliament for Chelmsford highlighted the work of the Over 50s Black Men Forum (O5BM) on the floor of the House of Commons during the Black History Month debate.
Speaking in the Commons, Ms Goldman praised O5BM as a not-for-profit established in Chelmsford and across Essex that is “improving the health and community voice of black men over the age of 50” and aims to reduce future dependency on the NHS among older Black men. She also noted O5BM’s expanding footprint across the South and East of England and referenced our “Soro Soke – O5BM” oral history project, which encourages older Black men to “speak up” and share their lived experiences.
🎥 Watch the recognition here: O5BM Gets MP Shout-Out in Parliament!
Who we are and why this matters
Formed in Essex, O5BM is now expanding regionally, providing community-based health and wellbeing prevention and intervention services designed to keep older Black men healthier for longer and reduce future demand on the NHS. In time, we hope the organisation will become part of future Black history as a positive contributor to the UK’s health equity agenda.
Our response
O5BM is deeply grateful for Marie’s recognition of our efforts and for her commitment to championing equality and inclusion. Public acknowledgement like this strengthens our partnerships with Government, the NHS, local councils and sports organisations—and helps us scale effective, community-led programmes that tackle inequalities and challenge prejudice.
This impact would not have been possible without the dedicated support of our funding partners:
The National Lottery Community Fund
Your commitment and belief in our vision have turned ideas into lasting community assets, offering both recreational enjoyment and life-saving health benefits.
We at O5BM remain committed to breaking down health inequalities, tackling social isolation, and creating spaces where Black men and the wider community can thrive in mind, body, and spirit.
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