I agree. You rightly (in my view) identify three groups if I understand correctly. I suggest that the top 5% haven't been touched by the recession other than borrowing has become cheaper. The 15% at the bottom are at rock bottom and for many of them sinking fast.
The remaining 80% whilst not having the best of times are managing to keep their heads above the water. I took it that those with mortgages interviewed for the news tonight were concerned about the £10 a week possible increase - just perhaps because all their income is committed; haven knows we've had enough pointers in the 'buy or lease' threads about people being willing to pay so much a month with out considering the total payments. Next thing you know they'll have to take coffee to work in a flask rather than stopping at Costa or alike every morning.