19 Mar 2026
Published on: 13 August 2026
The Active Seniors programme at Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre offers more than a workout; it offers a sense of belonging. Whether you want to improve your fitness, gain confidence, or simply connect with others, there’s a place for you here.
The Active Seniors programme was created with a simple goal in mind: supporting older adults to stay active and live well but, as our participants will tell you, the outcome is far greater than physical health.
At the centre of every thriving community is a group of extraordinary people who bring it to life.
The group’s success has been built over many years. Carol Cross, who pioneered the Streatham Senior Group more than 10 years ago, played a key role in creating the strong and welcoming community that exists today. Members agree that, without her passion, dedication and commitment to older adults, the group would not be what it is today.
Supporting the programme behind the scenes is Jean Bacchus, Leisure Hub Manager and Product Owner for the Senior Programme across Lambeth, who oversees its development and growth across the borough. Working alongside colleagues from the West Norwood team, Jean leads the planning and delivery of the Active Seniors programme and its events, helping to create opportunities for older adults to stay active, build friendships and enjoy new experiences.
This sense of community is at the heart of everything the programme offers. As members like Ms. B and Iona will tell you, Active Seniors is about much more than exercise; it’s about connection, confidence and belonging.
“We’re not just exercising – we’ve built a family”
Ms. B is the main spokesperson for the group and one of its organisers, helping to bring people together with her thoughtful nature and generous spirit.
Speaking about how the group first came together, Ms. B said:
“We met here. All of us, practically everyone in this group, we’ve met here at Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre. It’s the hub for our community, really.”
From day one, Ms. B made it her mission to make sure no one was left on the sidelines. For newcomers, this welcoming approach made all the difference.
“She’s not just holding onto you as a friend; it’s like she’s grasping you in a welcoming, encouraging way,” Iona explained.
“She explains things, introduces you, and encourages you to try different things. Even if you say, ‘Oh, no, no, no. I can’t do that,’ she still says, ‘Come and see.’ She has that attitude – the attitude of helping people and making you feel completely at ease.”
This sense of care isn’t confined to the sessions, either. Ms. B is known for checking in on members who are unable to attend.
“The reason I do that is that we are of an age where sometimes you could be on the floor and you’re on your own,” Ms. B explained. “And when people are on their own, others might say: ‘Oh, I haven’t seen that person.’ But we shouldn’t leave it for weeks without contacting someone. You pick up the phone or send a message: ‘Are you okay, Iona?’ That is what we do. Because we do worry – because we are family.”
It’s this mixture of caring about each other and a true connection that makes the Active Seniors about so much more than just staying fit.
For some, the idea of jumping into a fitness class, or even facing certain physical challenges, feels overwhelming. Iona knows this better than most. When she first joined the aqua aerobics class, she wasn’t confident about her abilities and felt nervous in the water.
“When I first came, I was holding on because I had a fear of water. I was nervous and scared,” she shared.
But slowly, with encouragement from the group and skilled instructors, she began to find her rhythm.
“Now I’m comfortable. I can do a lot; I can move a lot. The buoyancy of the water makes it easier for me to move freely. Because of the sessions, my walking has improved, I walk more upright and feel much more confident when I’m out on the road.”
Ms. B beams with pride when she talks about Iona’s progress.
“This lady is 85 years old and she can touch her toes! 85 years old, and she can run for the bus. When she came, she was unable to do any of that. Now she’s even better than us.” (laughs)
For Iona, the transformation wasn’t just about conquering her fear of water. It was a reminder that new challenges and victories are possible at any age.
Yoga and a sense of empowerment
It’s not just in the pool that members are thriving. Ms. B spoke about how senior yoga with Nalini has opened up a world of possibilities for herself and the rest of the group.
“When we first started, we were after mindfulness – we just wanted to lie on the floor! Now, we are doing incredible things – stretches, tiger poses – you name it! She’s the perfect instructor. Her guidance has helped me build flexibility and confidence like I never thought was possible.”
The yoga classes, like the rest of the programme, are tailored to the needs of older adults, making fitness accessible and enjoyable. But what makes them truly powerful is the way they help members rediscover their potential, both physically and mentally.
Dreams for the future
For both Ms. B and Iona, the Active Seniors programme isn’t just about what happens right now, it’s about growing and finding new opportunities to thrive.
“I’d love strength training classes. Tai Chi would be fantastic as well, and maybe even ballroom dancing. And senior Pilates, that would be a game-changer for many of us!” said Ms. B
It’s clear the group’s enthusiasm and ideas for the future are as strong as their determination to keep moving.
Join the Family
The Active Seniors programme at Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre offers more than a workout; it offers a sense of belonging. Whether you want to gain strength, confidence, or simply connect with others, there’s a place for you here.
As Ms. B says:
“Here at Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre, we are a community. The seniors group here welcomes everyone with open arms. When someone new joins, we introduce them to the group, show them what’s on offer, and make them feel part of the family. We take care of each other. This isn’t just about exercise; it’s about friendship and having people who care for you.”
Whether it’s yoga, aqua aerobics, or just a chance to connect over tea, the Active Seniors programme is a reminder that strength comes not just from movement, but from being together.
Active Seniors is about much more than fitness. Members can also get involved in the Divatones, a thriving 60+ singing group that has been bringing people together through music since 2015. Performing everything from soul and gospel to rock and choir favourites, the group offers members another way to stay active, build friendships and be part of a supportive community.
Find out more and join Active Seniors today.
