To get the large panel around the fuse box cover off, you need to reveal the screws at the top by removing the sort of long thin bulgy cover just below the steering column, i think this is the one in your description.
This thing is in two parts and both just clip off. Try inserting a long flat head screwdriver behind them and carefully prising them away. They are not that hard to get out so you shouldn't need too much force. Try pulling at different angles if they won't come off. There are two or three screws for the main panel behing these two covers.
I think overall there are 5 or 6 screws but the rest are not hidden.
Once you remove the big panel the relays will be obvious.
As for removing the relays i think you just pull them straight out.
Good luck
(by the way, if the worst happens and you do break a cover, it doesn't matter, it has no effect on driving the car, it's only a cosmetic cover)