This is true. I know somebody who is more or less bedbound, and they are only just about surviving thanks to the goodwill and charity of overstretched relatives and extended family. People should definitely question why such a large proportion of their income is subject to direct/indirect taxation, because if they ever succumb to ill heath they will be in for a very nasty shock. The concept of a safety net barely exists anymore. My heart goes out to Nicky's friend, and I totally share your disgust in the current state of affairs.