Connecting Expression to Employment at the Irotoa Collaboration Store in Harajuku

Irotoa, an inclusive culture brand, has created a distinctive collaboration store in Harajuku, dedicated to providing a supportive work environment through its continuation of employment B-type (B型) program. This initiative serves as a platform for individuals with disabilities to engage in meaningful work, expressing themselves while earning a wage in a safe and accommodating atmosphere.

Starting from August 6, the store offers individualized consultations for potential users, their families, and supporting organizations. Interested parties can reserve a consultation via phone to learn more about the available programs and ask any questions.

Support Programs Available at Irotoa

At the Irotoa collaboration store, a variety of support programs are designed to ensure participants can work comfortably and confidently. Each individual’s unique interests and preferences are carefully considered to determine suitable tasks. The range of activities includes:

- Sales Assistance: Providing customer service and product information support.
- Product Display: Organizing and arranging products on shelves.
- Wrapping and Packaging: Handling product wrapping and bagging tasks.
- Inventory Management: Engaging in stock management and quality checks.
- Photography Support: Assisting with taking photos for the online store.
- Creating Marketing Materials: Designing signage and promotional flyers.
- Product Creation: Engaging in the crafting of various products.

These tasks not only allow participants to choose what interests them but also provide multiple levels within each activity. This flexibility ensures that individuals can focus on what they enjoy, allowing them to work safely and comfortably.

To create a personalized support plan, specialized staff will conduct an in-depth assessment of each participant’s physical and emotional state, tailoring assistance according to their unique needs.

A Supportive and Accessible Environment

Ensuring a welcoming atmosphere, the store is situated conveniently, just a four-minute walk from Meiji-Jingumae Station. Important features of the store include:

- Quiet Spaces: Relaxation areas for users.
- Flexible Hours: Participants can attend once a week, with sessions tailored to fit their schedule, starting from just one hour at a time.
- Health Management: Systems are in place to allow participants to take breaks or skip sessions based on their health status.

Expert Staff Available for Support

A dedicated team of professionals, including lifestyle support workers, vocational trainers, and service management supervisors, are always on site. The staff-to-participant ratio is six to one, ensuring ample support for everyone. In the case of emergencies, the personnel can coordinate with surrounding support organizations to ensure all necessary assistance is provided.

Sample Daily Schedule

An example of a typical day at the Irotoa collaboration store is as follows:

- 10:00 AM: Morning assembly, health checks, and a mini-meeting with staff.
- 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Preparations for opening, including product arrangement and cleaning activities.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Break time, with flexibility for adjustment based on individual needs.
- 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Engaging in store activities such as customer assistance or inventory management, with several short breaks in between.
- 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM: End-of-day meeting and clean-up, followed by dismissal.

Participants can start with just one visit per week and sessions can last from as little as one hour. This accommodating system allows for gradual increases in participation based on their comfort levels.

Career Advancement Support

For those seeking general employment in the future, Irotoa provides tailored guidance aimed at professional growth. Every six months, an individual review of the support plan is undertaken, allowing for adjustments as needed. Participants wishing to enter general employment can receive assistance with resume writing, interview practice, company visits, and on-the-job training.

Earnings from Participation

The program offers a unique wage structure, with actual earnings ranging from ¥25,000 to ¥30,000, exceeding the national average by 1.5 to 1.8 times. Variations in earnings are attributable to individual attendance and participation frequency.

How to Request an Individual Consultation

To arrange a consultation, simply call during business hours from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM at 045-309-7611 (担当: Tsukamoto). Mentioning ‘Requests for individual outside employment consultation’ will facilitate the process.

Potential users can also expect an explanation of fees, which are absent in this initial phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days can I attend?

Participants can begin with just one day a week for one hour and can gradually increase attendance based on their health and comfort.

Can I receive medical care?

We will discuss your symptoms and offer care within our capabilities.

What if I struggle with store operations?

We can adjust to cater to your needs and either facilitate at-home support or propose shorter session frequencies based on your condition.

About Irotoa

Irotoa, an inclusive culture brand, aims to deliver unique expressions of individuality through its theme of ‘Colors of Individuality, Sounds of Life.’ This initiative embraces distinct personal characteristics as colors and the vibrancy of life as sounds. The collaboration store in Harajuku serves as both a retail outlet and a designated outside employment site for the continuation of employment B-type program.

Easy Access to Our Store

The Irotoa collaboration store is conveniently located in Harajuku and is ready to welcome all potential participants. With accessibility from both Harajuku Station and Meiji-Jingumae Station, it’s easy for individuals to engage with this groundbreaking program. If you have questions or wish to make a reservation, please reach out through phone.

For inquiries, please call 045-309-7611 (Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM).