#Japan #Tokyo #POLA #Kurumin Certification #Childcare Support

Pola's Commitment to Childcare Support

Pola Inc., headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has recently made headlines by obtaining the prestigious "Platinum Kurumin Certification" as of March 24. This recognition is provided by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare to companies that demonstrate exemplary support for employees balancing work and childcare.

Understanding the Platinum Kurumin Certification

The Platinum Kurumin Certification is a special designation awarded to employers that not only achieve the standards required for the basic Kurumin Certification but also actively engage in higher-level initiatives to create a supportive work environment for families. This initiative is rooted in the Next Generation育成支援対策推進法, which emphasizes improving work environments and expanding diverse employment conditions for working parents.

Pola previously earned the basic Kurumin Certification in 2012, and its recent achievement reflects its commitment to exceeding standards in supporting its employees and their family needs.

Pola's Key Initiatives in Childcare Support

Pola's approach to supporting working parents includes a variety of initiatives:

• - Establishment of a new childcare return support allowance (2023): This financial assistance aims to ease the transition back to work for parents.
• - Expanded eligible hours for reduced work schedules: Employees with less than one year of service can now benefit from this, along with support for parents of children up to the age of six.
• - 100% Male Paternity Leave Declaration: Pola encourages male employees to take paternity leave, supporting an inclusive environment.
• - Subsidies for childcare and related costs: This covers essential expenses for young families, alleviating financial burdens.
• - Babysitter Discount Coupons: Providing discounts fosters accessibility to childcare for parents.
• - Male Paternity Leave Utilization Rate of 183%: As of December 2024, Pola has seen male employees taking advantage of this leave significantly, indicating a positive cultural shift towards shared child-rearing responsibilities.

Supporting Work-Life Balance

In addition to childcare initiatives, Pola has implemented other measures to assist employees in balancing their personal and professional lives:

• - Support for caregiving and related costs: This acknowledges not just parental duties but also the responsibilities of caring for aging relatives.
• - Shortened work hours for caregiving: Flexible work structures to facilitate employee needs during family crises.
• - Healthcare initiatives led by obstetricians: Promoting women’s health and addressing issues related to fertility and family planning.
• - Distribution of coupons for health services: Including support for infertility treatments and gynecological check-ups.
• - Return-to-Work Program after illness: Policies that support employees re-entering the workforce following health-related absences.
• - Hybrid Work Flexibility: Ability for employees to work both in the office and remotely, allowing for a more comfortable work-life balance.

Looking Forward

Pola Inc.'s recognition as a Platinum Kurumin Certified company reflects its dedication to not only fulfilling regulatory requirements but actively striving to build a work culture that prioritizes family support. Their effective policies not only enhance employee satisfaction but also demonstrate an essential commitment to a sustainable workplace, paving the way for other organizations to emulate such practices.

Through these efforts, Pola has established itself as a leader in childcare support, fostering a harmonious work environment where employees can thrive at home and at work. The company’s vision to prioritize family well-being sets an important precedent in corporate responsibility within Japan and beyond.