[SISTERS x ITOCHU Corporation Labor Union] Launch of "Harassment Consultation Service" as an External Specialized Organization

SISTERS Co., Ltd. (Location: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Representative Director and President: Aine Suzuki) has been selected as an external specialized organization for the "Harassment Consultation Service" of the ITOCHU Corporation Labor Union and has commenced its operation.

In this initiative, leveraging our company's expertise specializing in harassment countermeasures, we will provide professional counseling by certified psychologists and a consultation scheme that strictly protects privacy, thereby supporting the creation of an environment where union members can feel secure in voicing their concerns.

■ Background and Purpose

In recent years, harassment countermeasures in companies have become an important management issue, and there is a growing need for a more neutral and specialized "external consultation service" not just within the organization.

The ITOCHU Corporation Labor Union has introduced SISTERS' harassment consultation service with the aim of protecting the physical and mental health of its members and maintaining a comfortable working environment for everyone. This new consultation system allows for specialized consultations by certified psychologists, different from the traditional in-house route, and also enables consultations without sharing information with the union.

■ Three Features of This Consultation Service

1. Professional Support by Certified Psychologists
   Certified psychologists with national qualifications will provide consultation from a third-party perspective. Beyond merely confirming facts, they will prioritize helping consultants organize their feelings and support the reduction of psychological burdens.

2. Thorough Information Management with Privacy
   Consultation details will not be shared with the union or company without the consultant's consent. This also addresses the need for "just wanting to talk" while maintaining anonymity.

3. Provision of Flexible Consultation Options
   A parallel route for consulting with the union as before is also available, realizing a service that responds to diverse needs.

■ Profile of the Psychologist in Charge

Waka Matsuo / Certified Psychologist (Psyche Mental School LLC)
After engaging in therapy for children with developmental characteristics, she has provided counseling at clinics and online counseling for company employees.

She will listen attentively to anxieties, discomfort, and difficulties felt while working, helping to organize situations and feelings, and supporting individuals in thinking about their future.