Marcel Berenblut is one of four million parents with a child under six, who will soon be legally entitled to request flexible working hours.

Five months ago, Mr Berenblut switched jobs and became head of fundraising at International Care and Relief, a charity which helps young people in the developing world.

I get home in the evening and she's asleep Marcel Berenblut

The new job offered better career prospects, but on the downside, the commute from North West London to Tunbridge Wells in Kent takes up to five hours a day.

While his employer is considerate and allows him to work from home one day a week, he still misses out on seeing his six month old daughter during the rest of the week.

"Because I'm away from the house for so many hours, I leave the house and she's not really awake. I get home in the evening and she's asleep."

From April 6 new "family friendly" employment rights will come into force.

It will mean that four million parents with a child under 6 and 200,000 mothers and fathers with disabled children up to the age of 18 will be able to request more flexible working.

Employers will have to give a good business reason to say no.

Compared to most workers I am in a fortunate position

Mr Berenblut is lucky, because he has a sympathetic employer.

His company already offers staff some flexibility.

Mr Berenblut is spared his six-hour commute on Fridays and can work from home.

"Compared to most workers I am in a fortunate position.

"But sadly, many employers do not understand that allowing a little flexibility means that workers are fresher and more alert rather than depressed or tired."

An Acas helpline service on 08457474747 gives guidance about the new legislation.