#Japan #Tokyo #Childcare Leave #e-Jan Networks #CACHATTO

e-Jan Networks Introduces 'Sukedachi Reward System'

e-Jan Networks, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has taken a significant step toward supporting employees who take leave for childcare and caregiving by launching a new program called the 'Sukedachi Reward System.' This initiative is set to commence in fiscal year 2025 and aims to provide necessary assistance to substitute staff who cover for employees on parental or caregiving leave. The program's structure allows for the tasks performed by substitute personnel to be assigned a point value, with rewards being disbursed based on these points.

Overview of the 'Sukedachi Reward System'

The system specifically targets employees who are absent from work for more than a month due to personal responsibilities such as caregiving, and it also includes unexpected leaves resulting from health issues. The eligibility for this program lasts up to a year, only applicable until regular staffing is restored through hiring or internal transfers.

Implementation Details

• - Assignment of Points: Substitute tasks will be quantified into points based on their nature. A list of designated personnel for each task will be created and submitted to the HR department biannually for management tracking.
• - Timing of Rewards: Rewards will be distributed twice a year during bonus payouts.

Current Landscape and Challenges of Childcare and Caregiving in Japanese Companies

In light of the amendments to the Childcare and Caregiving Leave Law effective from April 2025, businesses are now mandated to improve conditions that allow for employees to take necessary leave without the risk of resigning. Notably, a survey conducted by Tokyo Shoko Research revealed that approximately 58.8% of companies reported no occurrences of childcare or caregiving-related leave within the past year. Although 22.3% of surveyed companies experienced employees taking parental leave, only 4.3% dealt with caregiving leave.

More strikingly, about 38.7% of enterprises expressed dissatisfaction with their initiatives supporting work-life balance in regards to caregiving, citing difficulty in securing substitute personnel (62.6%) and a lack of company precedent (49.4%). Additionally, 25.5% noted that awareness around caregiving leave policies is insufficient among their employees.

Balancing Childcare and Caregiving at e-Jan Networks

At e-Jan Networks, we prioritize the ability of our employees to take necessary leave for childcare or caregiving. Notably, in the fiscal year 2024, the uptake of childcare leave among employees was remarkably high, with 67% of male employees and 100% of female employees exercising this right, thanks to both robust internal policies and the supportive culture among staff willing to step in during absences.

The introduction of the 'Sukedachi Reward System' is expected to alleviate psychological stress for employees during their leave by recognizing and compensating substitute staff. This initiative aims to foster a supportive work environment that encourages employees to take necessary breaks without hesitation, ensuring a healthier workplace overall.

Moreover, many of our employees are currently managing their jobs alongside their caregiving responsibilities, which is made feasible through our flexible work style 'e-Jan! Work Style,' powered by our telework platform, CACHATTO. More details about our unique approach to workplace flexibility can be found on our official blog here.

Campaign Supporting Telework Due to Revised Law

Currently, e-Jan Networks is conducting a campaign to assist in building telework environments in compliance with the revised Childcare and Caregiving Leave Law. Interested clients will receive insights into our telework practices, alongside a complimentary service from the 'CACHATTO' suite, aimed at supporting the integration of work with caregiving responsibilities. Find out more about the campaign here.

About e-Jan Networks

Founded in March 2000, e-Jan Networks has since been committed to securing telework environments with its leading platform, CACHATTO. The company focuses on the planning, development, sales, and operation of related products.

• - CEO: Shiro Sakamoto
• - Employee Count: 111 (including part-time staff as of April 1, 2025)
• - Company Website: e-Jan Networks