There are schools in the U.S. where you can learn in the R22 or Schweizer 300 (which many, including me, feel is a better training machine than the R22) for around $200 U.S. / hour - with the exchange rate at around 1.61, that's a descent cost saving. Take you about 2-3 weeks to complete. If you can take the time off, I feel an intensive course produces better results than doing the odd day here and there - allows you to really focus and build up momentum.
Free advertising not allowed but do a search for a JAA school in Titusville (Space Coast), Florida - very professional outfit that also offer JAR PPL(H) courses - I did a JAA CPL(H) with them. You'll probably need about 5 or so more hours when you get back to be comfortable with U.K. ATC and charts.
As far as the Scout is concerned, I don't have first hand knowledge but I would suspect that although the capital purchase price is similar, the hourly rate on the Scout will be higher due to the maintenance and insurance.
Good luck.