Bfisk has a point really doesn't he.
However you state:
regardless of your industry, profession or state of the economy there is always work to be found
Sorry to be a naysayer but at the moment if you want to fly as a pilot then with no experience there will not be work to be found - unless you have contacts who will help you find a position that would not necessarily be yours by ability and qualifications alone.
I can't let all the negative stories dissuade me from what I want to do.
Tread carefully on this. Perhaps those stories may persuade you to wait until the wheel has turned a little? It will turn despite all the naysayers - you just have to pick your time - get the time right and you win - get the time wrong and it will take you years to recover financially whilst never achieving your 'dream' - trust me when I say that for many a dream has turned into a nightmare.
Be very careful.
Regards
Exeng