Broadband 'helping those trying to get back into work'

The widespread take-up of technology such as broadband internet has allowed carers and people with disabilities to "get back into the work pool" by starting their own online business or working from home for employers, an expert has said.

Phil Flaxton, chief executive of Work Wise UK, said without the rollout of broadband and mobile technology, many of these people would be unable to get back into employment.

According to telecoms firm BT, there are currently over two million home-based businesses in the UK.

And, according to Work Wise - which aims to make the UK economy more progressive by promoting smarter working practices - working from home "significantly improves productivity" by making businesses more competitive and creating a better work-life balance.

The not-for-profit organisation will launch its second annual National Work at Home Day later this year.

Broadband coverage is above the European Union average, with 57 per cent of households now having access to a high-speed internet connection.