BUSINESSES across North East Wales are using a "common sense" approach to bringing staff back to the office, it has been said.

Askar Sheibani, managing director and CEO of Comtek Network Systems and chairman of Deeside Business Forum (DBF), said as covid-19 restrictions are lifted an understanding has developed between the regions employers and their workers.

He explained: "I think it's a two-way thing; companies are cautious but staff are more cautious.

"A lot of the staff don't want to be forced to go back and some are resistant, but on the other hand companies don't want to upset them and take their concerns seriously.

"There's an understanding between workforce and employer - the vast majority of employers are very caring and don't want to put pressure on their staff, especially in North East Wales.

"Everything should be done gradually so everyone feels comfortable and the risk element is lower and acceptable.

"A lot of organisations geared up to work during the pandemic so it's not such a big deal for them to have some staff working from home."

Speaking of his own company's situation, he said: "We are a technology company and we provide services to emergency bodies and organisations. "We have to have engineers working, but we obviously create a safe environment for them to work.

"We do have staff who can work from home and we allow them to decide for themselves. "By talking to people and businesses we learn how we can make the environment healthier and more productive. "Our area is way ahead of many in England."