New Support System 'workingU' Aims to Facilitate Paternity Leave for Men in Japanese Workplaces

Supporting Paternity Leave through the New 'workingU' System

As paternity leave uptake among Japanese men rises, illumista Inc. has unveiled a groundbreaking support system named 'workingU', launching its alpha version on May 7, 2025. The initiative aims to alleviate the burdens faced by HR departments while also addressing the concerns of employees taking parental leave.

Addressing Growing Challenges

In 2023, the rate of paternity leave taken by men in Japan reached 30%. While this is a positive increase, the government has set ambitious targets for the future, aiming for 50% by 2025 and 85% by 2030. As such, it is anticipated that this growth will accelerate considerably. Concurrently, with the amendments to the Childcare and Family Care Leave Law set to take effect in April 2025, employers will be obligated to engage in individual consultations with employees regarding their leave plans, adding further strain on HR departments. Additionally, employees considering paternity leave often grapple with concerns over their career trajectory, potential income reduction, and the impact of their absence on their teams.

Comprehensive Support with 'workingU'

'WorkingU' is designed to meet these evolving demands by enhancing the quality and efficiency of HR operations. This system supports various aspects of the leave process while providing necessary education and communication within companies, easing the management burdens as well. Some key features include:

1. Management of Employees on Leave: The system allows HR to manage employees across different phases of their leave, tracking details such as the number of employees on leave, their names, and specific periods, ensuring that all aspects of parental leave are meticulously organized.

2. Task and Reminder System for HR and Employees: 'WorkingU' includes a task management feature that automates reminders for crucial activities related to parental leave, such as documentation submissions and meetings, streamlining workflows for both HR personnel and employees.

3. AI-generated Parental Leave Plans: Leveraging AI capabilities, 'workingU' generates multiple leave plans tailored to couples' specific situations, complete with monthly income simulations to help them make informed decisions.

4. Mobile Communication Features: The system facilitates a dedicated chat functionality where employees on leave can communicate with HR, helping to bridge information gaps and support smooth workplace reintegration.

Ideal for Progressive Companies

This solution is particularly beneficial for businesses aiming to increase the uptake of parental leave, simplify the process, and ensure compliance with upcoming legal changes. Companies with limited HR staff that are facing a surge in inquiries and management tasks will find 'workingU' invaluable. Furthermore, organizations committed to promoting paternity leave and navigating the complexities of the revised Family Care Leave Law will benefit significantly from this system. It also addresses the pressing issue of employment turnover before and after childbirth for many businesses.

Launch Campaign and Event Participation

To celebrate its launch, 'workingU' is offering a special pricing plan for the first ten companies that sign up before June 2025. Interested businesses are encouraged to make inquiries promptly.

Additionally, illumista Inc. will be showcasing 'workingU' at the Startup Japan 2025 event from May 8 to 9 at Tokyo Big Sight. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience live demonstrations of the platform and receive free consultations on parental leave. Pre-registration is required for this event, and attendees are invited to schedule a visit to illumista's booth (S5-47).

About illumista Inc.

Founded in February 2024, illumista Inc. is dedicated to shining a light on work-life balance through innovative HR technology. With a vision to facilitate the integration of work into various life scenes, the company has already been recognized with the 'AWS Award' during the Demo Day of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's startup acceleration program, ASAC.

For more information, please visit illumista's website or the 'workingU' service site at working-u.jp.

Employers and HR professionals are urged to take note of this promising solution, which seeks to make paternity leave a more attainable and supported reality in Japan's modern workplace.