are you a member of your local BBKA? If not, that's probably why they're reluctant to pass on a swarm/nuc. Attending a beekeeping course is also,useful as you would be paired up with a bee buddy who would be keen to get you started. If you haven't had any training, I really would suggest you get some - bees need looking after to be successful, you can't just leave them to get on with it.
What sort of hive have you got? Sometimes that can be restrictive and not all parts are interchangeable with the different types of hive.
My branch are great - I was given a swarm last year, turned out the queen wasn't there and then I was given a young queen to requeen the hive. Worried that the cold snap had killed them off, but had a quick peep yesterday and fed them some sugar syrup (going on hols and want to make sure they can get some extra food), to find thriving bees! Such joy (and relief)!
Good luck