Over the last 30 years, dare I say it, the 'protestant work ethic' has been mocked and eroded from the character of the UK. Successive governments have failed working people with means testing benefits that discourage saving and providing for one self, and have created an open ended welfare system that discouraged coming off benefits. The ideals of a cradle to the grave welfare state are very noble but fails to acknowledge human nature. Too many people take out without putting enough back in which undermines the foundations of a welfare state.
I hate to tar every one with the same brush but the Waynes and Waynettres of this country have usually been bought up in a non working household and as mentioned before I would guess just as the majority children from professional backgrounds(doctors, accountants, teachers etc) go on to be professionals themselves , the offspring of the long term welfare dependants go on to do the same.
I hate to see the waste of youth and ability and reject the acceptance that nothing will change. What is needed is 'tough love', with the state helping people to have the right skills and attitude but also make it quite clear a life of welfare dependency is not an option.