Good first drill to buy for complete novice...

[pinenot]

You might actually be better going for one of Lidl's drill offers when they appear, normally these come with a three year guarantee and their Parkside brand is very good...pinenot

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Why do you say it must be a hammer drill?

You'll never drill holes in walls without a hammer action.

Wasn't sure when I posted the question but have since found out it'll be possible to fit the blind's 2 L-shaped brackets to the wooden frame of the window, so thankfully no need to worry about what's behind the plaster.

For 2mm pilot holes in wood, use a bradawl.