Charm Care Corporation Partners with Kyoto City to Support Young Carers by 2025

Charm Care Corporation Collaborates with Kyoto City for Young Carer Support

Charm Care Corporation has announced a significant partnership with Kyoto City to initiate a groundbreaking project aimed at supporting young carers starting July 1, 2025. The initiative addresses the pressing need to ease the burdens faced by young individuals who provide care for family members, allowing them to live more fulfilling lives.

Understanding the Initiative

The collaboration stems from a formal agreement designed to enhance support for young carers, recognized by the Child and Young Person Development Support Promotion Act. This law defines young carers as children and young adults who bear excessive responsibility for caregiving and daily life needs of their families. While these responsibilities can foster empathy and responsibility, they can also lead to mental and physical health concerns, academic difficulties, and feelings of isolation if the burdens become too overwhelming.

Charm Care Corporation, based in Osaka, has been at the forefront of young carer support since 2021, integrating its unique strengths as a caregiving entity. Meanwhile, Kyoto City is working toward further strengthening support mechanisms, anticipating the implementation of the “Kyoto City Ordinance for Promoting Support for Carers” in November 2024. The new agreement marks a significant step in laying the groundwork for a practical demonstrative study aimed at concrete support for young carers.

Components of the Collaborative Agreement

The agreement between Charm Care Corporation and Kyoto City focuses on two primary elements:
(1) Utilizing the specific qualities of a caregiving organization in providing support.
(2) Offering necessary assistance to achieve the project's objectives.

Targeted Support Programs

1. Respite Care Support

Description: Offering free accommodation and meals.
Eligibility: Young carers aged 18 to 30 referred by Kyoto City, whose care recipients are certified for caregiving needs.
Participating Facilities: Ten homes across Kyoto Prefecture, seven of which are in Kyoto City.
Usage Duration: Free day-use or overnight stays up to 3 days with meals included, along with complimentary transportation services.
Potential Uses:

- Temporary respite to step away from caregiving duties.
- Accommodation for care recipients during school trips or external stays.
- Opportunities for carers and care recipients to spend time together in a supportive environment.

2. Transitional Employment Support

Description: Flexible part-time work and training opportunities.
Eligibility: Current or former carers aged 16 to 30, referred by Kyoto City.
Work Activities:

- Routine tasks such as cleaning and laundry.
- Designated staff to mentor and support trainees.
- Consideration for flexible working conditions based on family needs.

Work Locations: Ten homes throughout Kyoto Prefecture, seven located in Kyoto City.
Potential Uses:

- Work arrangements tailored to individual family circumstances.
- Providing training opportunities for inexperienced carers.
- Considering the mental health of carers in task assignments.

3. Scholarship Support

Eligibility for Scholarship: University students in their third or fourth year, recommended by associated organizations.
Selection Criteria: Candidates must meet eligibility to join Charm Care Corporation.
Types of Scholarships Supported: Government-provided student loans.
Repayment Method: Charm Care Corporation will assist with repayments up to 30,000 yen per applicant monthly while employed with the company.

Charm Care Corporation is committed to continuously enhancing support for young carers, ensuring they receive the help they need to thrive alongside their responsibilities.

About the Organizations

Charm Care Corporation
Location: 21st Floor, Daibiru Main Building, 3-6-32 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka City
CEO: Takahiko Shimomura
Website: Charm Care Corporation

Kyoto City Health and Welfare Bureau
Location: 4th Floor, North Building, 488 Kamihonnoji-mae Town, Naka-ku, Kyoto City
Phone: 075-222-3527
Website: Kyoto City Welfare

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