So in essence a partnership would probably not be yours or anyone's best interests, you would almost immediately be a minor partner, unless you do bring something excellent to the table.
Sell yourself!
"Willing to learn", "Enthusiastic", "Driven", "Positive Outlook" all buzzwords to use when you can't offer money, only your time and effort.
If you can't get a partnership, I would suggest you look for someone willing to take on an apprentice for a few weeks, I will be doing the same in my new business, taking on someone who, once comfortable with the business would be able to take over when I want a break :P or more importantly when I am called up for interviews etc. I am based nowhere near London however, and cannot guarantee you a place
Ask around, if you offer your time free for a startup business as an apprentice, they'll be impressed by your 'drive' and 'enthusiasm' and offer you a job or even a manager position if and when they expand.
If they don't take you on paid after a while, you've got the experience to start your own business.
If you really need help with funding and you are confident you can start a business...there may be the chance of £1000 from this community under a possible Grant plan...I think things are still moving in the background *listens for cogs turning*... Yep theres something going on somewhere.