A social worker tells the story of Stan Rivers, a man he supported who outwardly appeared to be an accepted and well-liked member of his community - he had joined a number of clubs, had friends and was generally widely known in his local area. The social worker, however, discovered that Stan was in fact lonely and unhappy. In the new drive to make sure individuals are involved in their communities, the author makes some important points. He says '.. the work he needs is time consuming, delicate and personal ... We need to work with his heart and feelings". This is an extract from a book of the same name. Keywords: Friendship, Professionals