O5BM Chair visited the Catford Community Physical Health Hub on Tuesday 19 May, marking another important step in the Forum’s mission to improve the health, wellbeing and social connection of older Black men through regular physical activity and community engagement.
The Catford hub, based at Elim Pentecostal Church Hall, 10 Allerford Road, London SE6 3DD, offers free weekly table tennis sessions every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm. The hub has been developed as part of O5BM’s growing network of community-based physical health activities, with support from the City Bridge Foundation.
During the visit, the O5BM Chair met with members, volunteers and local participants, observing first-hand the energy, fellowship and positive atmosphere that the Catford hub is already creating. The session brought together older Black men in a relaxed and welcoming environment, using table tennis as a practical and enjoyable way to encourage movement, improve confidence and reduce isolation.
The visit also provided an opportunity to highlight O5BM’s wider commitment to preventative health. Through its community hubs, O5BM continues to promote simple but powerful lifestyle interventions that support better physical and mental wellbeing, particularly among men who may not always engage with traditional health services.
Table tennis is at the heart of the Catford hub because it is accessible, sociable and suitable for people of different fitness levels. It helps improve coordination, reflexes, balance, focus and strategic thinking, while also providing a fun way to stay active. Regular participation can support healthy weight management and contribute to reducing the risk of long-term conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and diabetes.
Speaking during the visit, the O5BM Chair commended the commitment of the local volunteers and encouraged more men in Catford and surrounding areas to take part.
“This hub is exactly what O5BM stands for: older Black men coming together, staying active, supporting one another and taking charge of their wellbeing. Physical activity does not have to be complicated. Sometimes, something as simple as table tennis can open the door to better health, new friendships and a stronger community.”
The Catford hub is more than a weekly sports session. It is a safe and supportive space where men can connect, talk, laugh, exercise and build confidence. Bats, balls and table tennis equipment are provided, and no previous experience is required.
O5BM is particularly keen to encourage men who may not currently be physically active to attend. The sessions are designed to be friendly, inclusive and pressure-free, allowing participants to move at their own pace while enjoying the benefits of regular community-based activity. The Community Physical Health Hub reflects O5BM’s continued expansion and its commitment to creating practical, culturally aware spaces that support older Black men’s health across London and beyond.
O5BM thanks the City Bridge Foundation, local volunteers, members and the Catford community for helping to make the hub possible.
The Catford Community Physical Health Hub is free to attend and takes place every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm at Elim Pentecostal Church Hall, 10 Allerford Road, London SE6 3DD.
Men interested in joining can register by scanning the QR code on the flyer or visit: www.o5bmforum.org.uk
