One of the icons of the Dutch welfare state reforms is the Personal Budget. With the introduction of this budget, care patients now have become consumers. They can manage their own budget and employ a care worker who cares according to the cared-for's wishes. The Personal Budget intends to create a market of care, as well as a shift of balance of power from professionals to care receivers. In practice, the market has not come yet. Instead, the majority of budget holders employ a family member. This is important as it gives recognition to informal carers.
