Hey Squidgy
Welcome.
Map reading is not as hard as it seems, a lot of people get intimidated by all the lines and symbols, but once you get over that its rather simple. My first piece of advice would be to get a map for somewhere local, such as a nature reserve, or a large hilly park or something, and walk around while trying to follow the map (you should only need to identify your start point on the map for this exercise) see how the changes in the land are shown on the map, get a feel for the scale, and try and spot what the symbols are in the real world (use the map key of course)
Navigation is more complex, but if you can get familiar with a map its not too difficult. I have taught several people to navigate and they were all surprised how simple it was once they were shown. That said there are aspects only experience can teach you.
Where abouts in Kent are you? if i know i will try and find an appropriate local site and can give you some exercises to start you off. I'm sure you will get plenty of tips and advice from others too.