You don't say if you have a Masters or not but if you're looking for studentships and don't manage one for this year you could always take a Masters course which would put you in a better position next year. Also, check out the research council websites to see which institutions/departments have been awarded funding then if they're suitable target your application to them.
Also, why does it matter if you're friends are doing one and you're not yet? Is that why you want to do one?

All lecturers etc. are busy, I followed up reference requests with a phone call and managed to get them straight away. Or you could visit them in person and get them to sort one out while you're there.

Have been invited for interviews at two institutions which comprise of 1/2 hour with a 5 minute presentation on previous independent research topic. Anyone got any advise on what else I can expect/should be focussing on as preparation?

Obviously the subject matter has to be what interests and motivates you and it helps to be in a location that suits. But it also helps to think in terms of the long term, speak to current postgrads at the institution in question and consider:

- Current research and funding directives at that institution
- Possibility of teaching and presenting at conferences
- Relationship with and support from your supervisor
- Institute facilities and administrative support
- Life after research; you don't have to have a 10 year life map but it helps to have a path in mind

I'm still applying/deciding and having spoken to a few Universities find they're all quite different.

Whatever you decide make sure it's a strategic move that's right for you. It doesn't really matter how you get there (or how long it takes) as long as you do. Whatever happened before is over; move on and enjoy it.

The best approach would be to breakdown all expenses to different categories; essential (housing, bills, fees etc.) and non-essential (travel, mobile, production costs etc). You can then present this to your supervisor and as a type of business plan for funding applications.

Take a look at the Postgraduate Research Handbook (ISBN: 0-333-74777-1) which should help you outline your research methodologies - once you've outlined these and discussed them with your supervisor you can estimate costs and contingencies.

Get yourself to your local postgraduate fair (there are plenty coming up in the next couple of months) for further advice. Also, any good university careers service will have a contact you could liaise with.

And finally, good luck and be positive