The North-East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) has come out in support of the Work Wise campaign to see flexible working practices become more widespread.

NECC staff are now able to benefit from the chance to work from home or at more convenient hours and it is hoped the Work Wise north-east initiative will promote these ideas across the region.

With more than 230 operatives, the NECC is hoping the introduction of flexible working practices will enable its employees to establish a better work-life balance, reports the Northern Echo.

Isobel Robertson, NECC deputy chief executive, told the paper: "For years, we have offered staff the opportunity to work flexibly, but this is the first time we’ve placed a commitment to encourage smarter working practices.

"The modern workplace is vastly different from what it used to be and NECC is ahead of the game when it comes to providing its employees with as much support and flexibility as we can."

Meanwhile, Work Wise UK is encouraging companies across the country to introduce flexible working practices for the benefit of both their business and their employees.