A new programme offering business lessons to mothers looking to set up their own company and operate from home has been launched in the UK, it has emerged.

The Lotus Courses company is aiming to equip women across the country with the skills they need to start a business and to strike a more healthy balance between their professional and personal lives.

With flexible working a growing trend nationwide, Lotus is keen to help create a new breed of "business-mums" and will offer an ongoing support service to its customers.

"Lotus is committed to supporting women in their search for a better balance between life and work," comments the founder of Lotus Courses Leigh Hunt.

"Through coaching, training and home business support, it’s our mission to arm women with the vision, confidence and skills to run their own home based business."

Meanwhile, the not-for-profit group Work Wise UK is aiming to encourage Britons to work from home to cut congestion and carbon emissions across the country.