I operated from farm fields within the Glasgow zone for many years and I still regularly get VFR clearances through the Glasgow zone. During all this time, I have found Glasgow ATC almost unfailingly helpful and have almost never been refused a clearance.
I appreciate that they are currently short staffed and that this might restrict VFR clearances at busy times but hopefully these will still be available most of the time, especially if you phone a little in advance. Time will tell......