FLEXIBLE working could boost the health of employees and cut staff sick leave at firms in the region, according to a not-for-profit organisation.

Work Wise, which aims to encourage employers to adopt smarter working practices, yesterday marked the end of Work Wise Week.

It believes that a change in regular working patterns could help reduce stress in the workplace, caused by the long-hours culture that exists in the UK and the huge amount of time spent commuting.

Simon Roberson, chairman of Work Wise North-East, said: "Much of this stress is caused by outmoded working practices centred on work taking place at a central location, involving long commutes, and inflexible hours, making it difficult for people to balance work with their social and family commitments.

"However, the nature of work is changing fundamentally. UK businesses need to understand this, and adapt and evolve accordingly."

Tony Sarginson, regional manager for manufacturing employers' organisation EEF Northern, said: "More needs to be done to convince employers of the benefits of smarter working practices.

"Imbalance of work and home life can increase stress and can result in increased levels of absence."

For more information go to workwiseuk.org