PhD funding concern

Hello,
I am deciding which courses to apply for in order to make my way to completing a PhD in environmental politics. Recently I completed my BA in History and Political Science and my desire is to hopefully become a lecturer. In terms of applying, this would probably be in the form of a part-time masters as I do not have the finances to go straight through a full time masters. Ideally, I would like to get onto a PhD fully funded through possibly the ESRC or another funding body.

I received a 66 overall in my undergraduate, with a 68 on my dissertation surrounding climate politics, as well as a First in my Environmental Politics module. The reason for the low grades was my health anxiety that emerged throughout the year.

My issue, therefore, is whether taking an MSc or MRes is the best option, or if there is anything else I need to do to boost my chances of being accepted in two years. I have been told different things by different people ranging from needing a Social Research Methods Masters, to it being fine just applying for a basic MSc in Environment, Development and Politics as long as I achieve a First and have research experience under my belt.

Just wanted to gauge some opinions.

Thank you!