MORE people are applying for work experience to improve their job prospects, according to new figures.

The National Careers Service job confidence index for the second quarter of 2013 has shown overall confidence in the north west has grown from 51.2 to 52.1 The Index, based on research looking at various issues affecting someone’s confidence in finding work, analyses the state of the nation’s work and employment prospects and shows that in the north west, improvements in job confidence have been driven predominately by unemployed people having a more positive outlook.

The research shows that 76 per cent of north west residents became more job confident, or maintained the same confidence levels in their job and ability to find work over the past three months.

To help improve the figures further, the National Careers Service has recently launched the CareersAdvice app.

The app features top tips on job search, CV writing and job interviews, as well as information on different job profiles, key career events and inspiring stories of people who have achieved their career goals.

Skills minister Matthew Hancock said: "It’s great to see that the nation’s job confidence has increased in the last three months, matching economic growth.

“It is also good to know that more and more people are seeking out work experience as we know that this is a good way to access and understand careers.

“There are already a record number of jobs in the UK and while many challenges remain, these figures show the plan is working."

Joe Billington, director of the National Careers Service, said: “The National Careers Service is committed to providing inspiring careers advice to young people and adults at all stages of their working life, helping to motivate them to make the right decisions for their careers and indeed lives.

“It’s great news that people are feeling more job confident. We encourage employers to work with schools and colleges to ensure people receive high-quality careers advice which is relevant – with employers taking centre stage in helping people to get on in life.”