Unless you're very confident in finance DO NOT apply for any loans. If you have a friend who is fairly finance savy ask them to go through everything with you (but make sure they really do know what they're doing). If you don't contact Citizens Advice line or go in and see your local branch they can offer constructive advice, and best of all it's all FREE.
I'm an independant mortgage advisor and know that most companies who advertise on TV offer loans secured on your home (which means if you miss a payment they can repossess your house). They make so much money on them they even offer advisors up to 12% commission to sell them (If you borrow �10,000 a loan advisor could earn up to �1,200!!) THis shows just how much money they could make from you.
Please be really careful before you borrow any money. Up to 8% APR is really good, Up to 14% APR is a bit steep. Up to 18% APR is only to be used as an emergency and 19% plus is a definate no go!