The worrying thing is that starting your ATPL GS means the clock is ticking i.e. 18 months to get it finished. When you complete the ATPL GS the next clock starts ticking straight after the other stops, the second clock it ticking as you need to complete both your CPL and IR within 36 months
So the way I see it if you're struggling for cash now what will you be like post ATPL GS? HB / CPL / MEP / MEIR ... Will set you back a fair bit.
On the other hand if you did stick to this plan and took the maximum time on both the ATPL GS and not getting the CPL/IR until say 30 months after passing your last exam you'd probably complete your training (4 / 4.5 years time) at the right point of the upturn (At a guess - I am no economist).