By Kevin Baxter, Times Online

Mothers hoping for a better work-life balance are being assisted by a new company that offers support and vocational training to set up a business from home.

Lotus Courses, a web-based company aimed specifically at women, provides access to a growing network of like-minded women who are leaving their jobs and starting new enterprises.

More women are choosing to work from home and have now become a powerful force within British business, with a combined turnover of ?4.4 billion, according to a survey carried out by Yellow Pages in conjunction with the London School of Economics.

Lotus Courses founder, businesswoman Leigh Hunt, said: "It’s our mission to arm women with the confidence and skills to run their own home based business and, more specifically, businesses that can work in harmony with family and personal commitments."

Courses range from aromatherapy to fundamental business skills.

For further information go to www.lotuscourses.com and for free advice for mothers wanting to start their own business go to http://www.bizmums.co.uk/