Togetherness versus Isolation. To be human is to be part of a community whilst recognising each others’ uniqueness. As such, social isolation can have a negative impact on our health whilst negative relationships may also cause us harm. Social isolation impacts negatively on outcomes of chronic physical and psychological disease (Drennan et al., 2008). As nurses working within care settings we need to be acutely aware of the importance of social interaction between nurses and patients, as well as between patients their carers, friends or family. In addition, the development and maintenance of trust between nurses and patients is paramount, and a central aspect of that is the maintenance of the individual’s dignity. Practice Point 4; as nurses we need to ensure that we offer those we care for support and the opportunity to build relationships and friendships