As the NHS and general practice changes, the authors raise questions about of one of the fundamental human responses we all can have to each other. This article looks at the dynamics and impact of listening in health care for nurses and staff. The close relationship between active listening and safe, lawful and ethical health care are explored. It combines current academic doctoral work, wider research, practical experience and psychological thinking on how listening is a conduit of care and humanity. The article shares stories, research and observation to ask what communicative listening looks like, why it matters, and how we practice this powerful skill. The authors come from different and complementary backgrounds, bringing together a wealth of experience and knowledge to challenge and explore the concept and practice of listening.