Right now the best glider for most starting clubs are the Grob. The Blanik L23 is an other option. The L13 filled that gap for many years, but now most are stored. The club just to the south of you near Hamilton has a L13 being refurbished right now. Hopefully you are in contact with them.

A winch would be a good option for launching, especially if you have a ridge nearby that can be reached off a winch launch.