Your profile does not indicate where about in England you are, but most counties are covered by local Family History Societies under the National Federation. I would strongly advise joining one of these, for a small annual subscription you get quarterly journals and the opportunity to attend meetings.
You can either join a Society local to you, or one in the area your family have connections to, I belong to several. If one meets close to where you live, then you can attend their meetings and listen to some expert speakers, you get the chance to discuss your problems with others who can often help with tips and advice.
Joining a Society in county where your family lived, gives you the chance of contacting people with good local knowledge. A Society often has its own research centre where they hold a their own records and transcriptions, members will often do local research for you, look for graves or take photographs of places you can't visit from a distance.
You certainly would not be asked for any personal details, just your name and address. It will then be up to you to register the names you are researching in their members interests section if you wish, this gives you the chance to find if others are searching the same families.
I have made lots of contacts, and received help over the years, and have reciprocated. I hope you find this suggestion of help.
