Up to 1,000 jobs are to be created by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) as it bids to tackle the issue of delays in getting through to call centres.

Although its performance has improved from 48% of calls handled in 2010/11 to 74% in 2011/12, HMRC said more needed to be done if it is to reach a target of answering 90% of calls two years ahead of schedule.

Extra investment to the tune of £9 million will be made available this year, and up to £25 million in 2013/14 to help reach the target next spring.

"It is vital that when customers call us for help their call is answered - and in a reasonable time," said chief executive Lin Homer.

"The feedback we get is that the quality of the advice we give when people get through is good, but we haven't been answering enough calls."

HMRC currently employs 8,500 staff in 17 contact centres across the UK, handling around 60 million calls each year.

Whether it's just for the summer months or in line with your studies, having a part-time job is a great way to earn some extra cash. It also allows you to save more, putting money away for those rainy days.

Copyright Press Association 2012