Sunshine City Group's Innovative Training to Understand and Support Colleagues with Menstrual Pain

Sharing Invisible Pain: A Revolutionary Approach at Sunshine City Group

Sunshine City Group, located in Toshima Ward, Tokyo, has taken a groundbreaking step towards fostering an inclusive work environment. On May 28, the company conducted a "Menstrual Pain Experience Training" aimed at promoting empathy and support among colleagues regarding menstrual pain, a topic often shrouded in silence.

This initiative utilized the "Pirionoid" device provided by Linkage, designed to simulate menstrual pain, allowing participants to experience the discomfort firsthand. By encouraging individuals to verbalize and share their own pain experiences, the training aimed to bridge the understanding gap between genders, ensuring that everyone in the workplace can give and receive support during unexpected health issues.

In total, 25 employees from Sunshine City Group’s subsidiaries—Sunshine City Co., Sunshine Enterprises, and Sunshine City Building Management—participated in the training. The session started with a theoretical component that walked participants through the physiological aspects of menstrual pain. It also highlighted the hidden health risks of ignoring such pain and the potential impact on workplace performance due to these health challenges. After discussing the theory, participants engaged in hands-on experiences with the Pirionoid device, experiencing different segments of pain and recognizing the individual nature of pain perception.

Feedback from participants showed a deepened understanding and recognition of how menstrual pain can affect one’s ability to work. One employee mentioned how they had underestimated the intensity of menstrual pain, realizing for the first time that it could hinder someone's concentration at work. More importantly, male participants expressed their appreciation for hearing candid thoughts from women, creating a safe space for dialogue where everyone could contribute openly.

The discussions that followed highlighted the need for workplace policies to support those experiencing menstrual pain. Many emphasized the necessity of removing societal barriers that often make it uncomfortable to discuss these issues openly. Key insights included the importance of providing a supportive work culture where taking sick leave or adjusting work conditions during painful episodes is respected and facilitated.

Additionally, on September 1, aligned with Disaster Prevention Day, Sunshine City Group will host another training on inclusive disaster preparedness for individuals with disabilities. This ongoing commitment reflects the company’s broader initiative to cultivate a workplace that respects and supports diverse needs across gender and life stages.

Sunshine City Group's commitment to inclusivity is further exemplified in the remarks from Kobuki Yuko, head of customer experience (CX) at Sunshine City. She expressed her belief that the success of this program comes from the authenticity of discussions that emerged during the training. The employees’ sincere feedback and constructive ideas are invaluable as they work towards creating a workplace where every individual can perform at their best.

In addition to the menstrual pain training, Sunshine City has implemented various other training programs focused on diversity, equity, and inclusivity, educating staff on how to be better allies and support systems for all employees. They continue to encourage an environment where all can thrive and collaborate effectively.

As part of their commitment to enhancing the customer experience, Sunshine City welcomes over 30 million visitors annually. The organization understands that thriving employees contribute to providing memorable experiences for their guests. By instilling an atmosphere of understanding and support, Sunshine City Group aims to lead by example in addressing traditionally sensitive topics and ensuring all employees can contribute fully and without hindrance.

This type of training showcases how organizations can foster a culture of respect and support, which ultimately enhances not just employee satisfaction but also the service quality to customers. With continuous efforts like these, Sunshine City Group hopes to further establish a workplace where every employee feels valued, acknowledged, and empowered.

For further insights into their customer experience initiatives, please visit Sunshine City’s CX initiatives.