Either overhaul the welfare state or bring back workhouses

It just occurred to me, I really don't like the welfare state and the idea of cradle to the grave. 

Perhaps it's my Chinese upbringing, but I was brought up with a strong sense of work ethic. This was hit home to me while I was at work today, trying to check prescriptions when a couple and their child in pram arrived requesting something on the minor ailments scheme.

Time for some exposition. The minor ailments scheme allows people in Scotland exempt from prescription charges e.g. children; to receive certain non prescription medicines free of charge, at the pharmacist's discretion.   

Sounds great, huh? Not really, it gets abused so much by the public. The father of the child stood and stared at me constantly, as if suggesting that his time was precious and I should hurry up. 

That's the problem with a welfare state. It imparts a sense of entitlement to people, that they are entitled to things for free and don't have to work like everyone else if they don't want to, meanwhile forgetting that what they receive comes from taxpayer's money.  

It damages the work ethic and stifles competitiveness. There's nothing like fear of not having a roof over your head to make people work harder.

So, either make the welfare screening process more rigorous or bring back the work house.