I think my best option at the moment is to do a trial lesson at each of Strathavan, Perth and Balado and then maybe one at Cumbernauld, and then decide the best route?
Absolutely right. Not only assess the flying experience, but the school/club atmosphere and how helpful people were.
In addition, go and see an Aircrew Medical Examiner (AME) and discuss the medical options for each licence, against your personal medical situation. We always advise people to do this after their Trial Lesson, before they commit to more expense. There's a list of AMEs on the CAA website.
TOO