Working from home one or more days a week allows staff to recharge and return to the office with more energy, according to reports.

According to the CNN news service, some American businesses are encouraging the homeworking practice and as a result have a more attentive and efficient workforce.

Furthermore, the recent report suggests that allowing staff to operate from their own homes can boost recruitment efforts for US companies and help disabled people find work more easily.

"At the insurance brokerage company NRG::Seattle, employees are encouraged to work at home one day every week so they can concentrate better and recharge their spirits," explains CNN.

"The result is little turnover and a higher attraction for recruiting employees who are full of energy at work."

Research carried out by Citrix Online last month found that larger businesses are currently leading the way when it comes to introducing flexible working practices.