As John says we have the welfare state and the NHS. The majority of us value both, and treat them with respect.
But when and why did it become ok for a minority to abuse both? The country needed some changes to the benefits system, to encourage those healthy people who rarely (if ever) work to take some responsibility for their lifestyles. Unfortunately, some of the most vulnerable people have had the worst outcomes. I also know that not all foodbank users are genuine.
This lockdown period has stopped the chancers, the drunks, and those who've over indulged in their drug of choice from overloading A&E and the ambulance service. I wonder how long that will last once a form of 'normality' returns.
I'm however a bit puzzled by John's assertion of the middle class collapsing. Part of what we hear from others of our generation is that families used to all be in the same boat, poor but happy, didn't lock our doors etc. Many on here moved up on the ladder of aspiration, and have children, and perhaps even grandchildren who have middle class life styles. Societal studies have shown a large shrinkage in traditional working class households, as the middle has expanded. Its those in the low paid, not classed as skilled (although that should be argued) jobs who are suffering. Not the doctors, lawyers, bankers, IT professionals, accountants, teachers etc.