Reliable work and income from agency will be nonexistent. You might get work until Christmas but after that don’t expect to hear from them again till May.
If your mate has opened the door for you I’d say go there. You say the money isn’t the best but is it actually bad or is it on par with other firms in the area?
Alternatively if you have a Stobart depot within commutable distance apply there. They will take you. They’ll take anyone.