I doubt too many places will allow a brand new pilot to take any passengers up in their helicopters without a cfi.
UK CFI = Chief Flying Instructor
US CFI = Certified Flying Instructor = UK Flying Instructor.
In the UK, yes, many schools will allow you to take passengers - that's what a mean PPL means.
However, in the UK you cannot take passengers until you've got the physical licence in your grubby little mitts - until then, you can only fly solo (with an FI on the ground) or with an FI.
Once I'd got my licence (about 4 weeks from test), first passenger was me Ma. Then me Da. Then diverse friends and family for trips and jollies around Norfolk. But I knew I'd be going onto CPL so I used my hour building wisely to that end. It may be different if you have no further licensing plans.
Aucky makes some good points for PPL flying so ask your local school if they organise any events.
Cheers
Whirls