But given the extra time, peace and quiet, it is a great opportunity for mums, or stay-at-home dads, to take time to follow their own passions.

The term "mumtrepreneur" is becoming more familiar as mums are taking a chance with their new business ideas. In fact, the number of women working for themselves has leapt by almost 20 per cent since 2000, and now tops a million.

An opinion poll commissioned by the Government shows that the most significant factor in this increase is a desire among women for a better balance between work and family life.

The biggest motivation for going it alone is being able to work more flexibly (70 per cent, YouGov 2008). The survey also found that 75 per cent of women say they can achieve a work-life balance through running their own business.

But if you've never started your own company before or even been the one in charge, the whole concept can be a bit daunting.

For many, finding out exactly where to start and all of the required details for setting up can be a stumbling block. But help and impartial business advice are available from Business Link in the East of England.

When setting up a new business, there are many areas to consider, such as creating a full business plan, conducting market research, becoming VAT registered, and so the list goes on.

It could become overwhelming but, if you have the passion and drive, you can take your business forward with the right advice.

Business Link offers a range of start-up themed workshops, which are specially designed to meet specific requirements of new-start companies.

In its 2007-08 year, it found that it was women who seemed to be taking advantage of these events. In fact, of the 13,710 delegates who participated in the start-up themed workshops across the East of England region, 54 per cent were women.

Women in business specialist for Business Link in the East of England Lesley Crisp said: "Increasingly, we are seeing women coming to Business Link with ideas and plans to start a new company and, for most, it is a completely new and daunting experience.

"But seeking advice is the right thing to do as it helps ease the stress of the process and can answer questions you didn't even know you had."

If you would like more information about Business Link services, or wish to speak to a business adviser regarding your idea, call 08457 17 16 15, or visit www.businesslink.gov.uk/east