Reaching retirement doesn’t always mean slowing down, in fact for many, it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. At Churchill Living, over 60s are encouraged to stay active, share their knowledge, volunteer their time and contribute to their local community in meaningful ways. Tim Gould is a perfect example of this. At 76, he’s not only still working, but thriving, living a full, independent life thanks to his passion and the supportive environment around him.
Tim has spent his life at the heart of the world’s most renowned insurance marketplace – Lloyd’s of London. Beginning his career there in 1966, Tim has worked in three of its buildings, including the iconic “inside-out” structure designed by Richard Rogers. With a career spanning over five decades, Tim has brokered insurance for satellites, Hollywood actresses, racehorses and much more.
One of Tim’s most memorable cases involved insuring a $180 million American satellite in 1983, that vanished into deep space and was suspected lost: “I managed to convince the only six insurance brokers for satellites to put in and fund a second satellite. We were expecting it to find the remains of the original one, but remarkably the second satellite found it still intact and brought it back to earth safely. The people on board were still alive, we were shocked and so relieved!” he recalls. From massive claims like the Titanic and the Olympia, to the aftermath of events like the Los Angeles wildfires, Tim has had a front-row seat to history, and all the risks that come with it.
Now, Tim still leads tours through the Lloyd’s building, sharing its traditions with students and insurance professionals from all over the world: “They come in expecting something dry and uninteresting, and leave wanting to work there. It’s the people, the history, and the way we have always done business, face-to-face, with no fiddly bits in-between. That’s what truly makes Lloyd’s special.”
Despite a lifetime of international travel, across Europe, the U.S, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong, Tim now finds his greatest comfort in community and familiarity.
Charrington Lodge offered exactly that. With friendly, helpful staff like Karen and Tina, a supportive and sociable atmosphere, and the unbeatable convenience of being just a short walk from the train station, the Lodge makes it easy for Tim to stay independent and connected to London.
“It’s got everything I need and more, good people, good location and a community that works together. It all just fits. I can’t praise the staff enough, Karen and Tina especially have been nothing short of incredible with their help and support. Churchill really does provide a lot.” Tim commented.
Surrounded by a warm community, supported in daily life, and still playing an essential role in sharing the legacy of Lloyd’s, he’s found the perfect balance between independence and belonging. For Tim, Charrington Lodge isn’t just his home, but a foundation that allows him to stay connected to doing what he loves most.