Masters Discussion Forum

Hello,
I wish a very happy new year to all those who happen to read this line.
I'm from Italy, I earned a master degree in Art and Theatre studies a few months ago and I have been putting together information about how to further my studies in the Uk. I'm particularly interested in attending a MRes, but I have been coming across a series of difficulties.
What I am worried about at the moment is the research proposal. First, I am unsure whether it is strictly necessary to an application for a MRes ( universities' websites are often rather unclear about it). Then, if it is, I wonder how I could seek advice from someone, as my supervisor has been working for another university now and he is highly unlikely to help me, even though he said he would write a reference letter for me.
I have surfed the internet a bit and I have found out there are agencies that actually sell research proposal samples: I wonder if are there services that help students who need counseling as well.
Thank you for reading so far and thank you in advance for any reply.
Good bye.