Dear Mackam
The best way that I found to get into Dispatching was working my way up. I got a job as Ramp Agent (baggage handler) for a few years, then went to check in for six months (although didnt like that) then into Dispatch/load control for years!!!
Have a look on websites such as aviationjobsearch.com and the recruitmentplace.com. Menzies Aviation are always looking for people through the recruitment place and depending on how desperate they are you might be able to walk straight into a TCO job (turnaround Coordinator) this job is coordinating everything for a safe on time departure like a dispatcher!! Depending on which company you end up working for depends on how much you learn/do with regards to weight and balance of the aircraft and loading instruction reports (where to load bags and freight or pallets and bins on the big boys!/load sheet production (final wights for flt deck and trim settings)
If you google Aircraft Dispatcher/Load Controller/Turnaround Coordinator you will be able to read up on what they do (saves buying any books)..... if you are really keen google avtech2000 and they offer city & guilds courses in aviation foundation studies and then more job specific advanced stuff.
I wouldnt really bother with expensive advertised courses as personally I dont think they are of any benefit.... A willingness to learn and work hard will be a good start for you!
The money is not what it used to be and again depending on which company you work for a TCO/Dispatcher down south would earn between £18,000 - £29,000 (£29K job is with the knob with a beard's airline!!) if you can get in... but they like a lot of experience) Remember if you work for the likes of Menzies on £18.000K a year you get the training you want and can go elsewhere with experience in a few years.
I hope this helps
Krgds
Dude