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Attitudes towards the welfare state

General support for the principles of the welfare state remains.  Despite awareness of the huge challenges posed by factors such as changing demographics, attitudes towards the welfare state have changed very little in the past decade.  For example, many still believe the welfare state should pay for long-term care.  However, a significant proportion of people view the welfare state as a ‘club’ to which people belong, and that it is wrong for people to benefit from services which they have not helped pay for.  This attitude could further expand with the challenges posed by globalisation and migration (See global population movement)

What are the implications?

• Greater support for a system of benefits that are awarded to those who have earned them through the tax system.
• Reduction of welfare provisions and services may lead to higher levels of poverty and inequality, social fragmentation, marginalisation and unrest.
• Decreased support for public services targeted at those in poverty may lead to an increase in the role of the VCS in public service delivery as VCOs pick up the pieces from a slimmed down welfare state.
• If the ‘club’ mentality spreads to attitudes towards charitable or corporate giving, it could mean lesssupport for already marginalised groups of people.
• An increased focus on a society of self-reliance and personal responsibility.

Moving forward

The ‘big’ tent model of the welfare state, in which the right to resources and support is inclusive and open , is likely to recede due to the development of the ‘club mentality’.

• Is this like to spread to people’s attitudes towards the VCS?

Delivering more services on behalf of the state is a strategic choice for every organisation. It offers many opportunities but also comes with risks such as: mission drift; loss of public trust; loss of independence; and becoming more like public sector organisations.

• Is public service delivery the best option for your organisation?  Are funder imposed outputs and outcomes compatible with your mission and constitution?