Begin Again Moments: The Reality of Homelessness

About this episode

“We have more communication today than ever before, but also more loneliness. You never know what’s going on for someone else” In this moving Moments episode, Rob Parsons shares the extraordinary story of Ronnie, a vulnerable man he had known since childhood, who arrived on his doorstep just before Christmas with all his belongings in a black plastic bag and a frozen chicken in his hand. With two simple words, “come in”, Rob and his wife Diane changed the course of Ronnie’s life. What began as one meal became a lifelong relationship, revealing the profound impact that safety, dignity, and human connection can have on someone who has been failed by the care system and left without a place to belong. Rob reflects on what Ronnie’s story taught him about homelessness, childhood trauma, neurodivergence, loneliness, and the systems that so often leave vulnerable people behind. He explores why relationships, not just services or structures, are essential in helping people rebuild their lives. Later in the episode, Simon Squibb shares his own deeply personal experience of being made homeless at 15, just after his father died. Thrown suddenly into the real world, Simon recalls how the people society often overlooks became the kindest and most generous, offering him food, blankets, and guidance when he needed it most. Together, Rob and Simon’s stories challenge the way we see homelessness, reminding us that anyone’s life can change in an instant, and that even the smallest act of kindness can restore someone’s sense of hope, dignity, and belonging. The full episodes are available now, wherever you get your podcasts or you can watch on YouTube: Rob Parsons: https://youtu.be/wlpcFnOPH2k Simon Squibb: https://youtu.be/5GEQE8ztdf4 Sponsored by: Saily - Download from the app store and use code DAVINA at the checkout for 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices