This contrasts with the other findings of the independent research report into home-based businesses*, which highlights that 56 per cent began their companies because they wanted a better work-life balance and a third (34 per cent) because they wanted to spend more time with their family.
Two thirds of businesses (62 per cent) also made the choice to be based at home for the increased flexibility or to work the hours they choose – this is particularly true in Scotland and Wales, with 70 per cent and 71 per cent respectively.
BT Business has launched the Year of the Home Worker campaign to promote the needs of the UK’s 2.1 million home-based workers and businesses across the country.
An important part of the campaign is the launch of a new BT Business Insight web site (www.bt.com/insight) especially for home-based businesses and workers. The site features two portals, “Working from Home” and “Be Your own Boss”. This free online resource gives businesses information and advice on important business and technology issues. It includes guides on hot topics, regular webinars and podcasts from experts and other small businesses.
Bill Murphy, managing director at BT Business, said: “There are now more than two million home-based businesses in the UK, yet almost half are struggling to separate their work and home lives – the very reason why many of them decided to work from home in the first place.
“We want the Year of the Home Worker to raise awareness of the challenges these businesses and workers face, and to provide them with the information and tools they need to help them work more effectively – and, more importantly, help them create the better work-life balance they crave.”