This conference looked at personal budgets, information and advice, joint working, care trusts, regulation and the development of the new personalised care market. It also considered the impact of the credit crunch on the economics of older people and carers, their capital assets, pensions and entitlements, public contributions and top-ups. How will hard-pressed authorities ration personalised budgets in under-funded areas? The event was for all those in leadership, policy, practice and senior management who work in adult social care in the public, private and the voluntary sectors, delivering care and giving advice.