[Saga City] First in Kyushu! Integrated AI Consultation for Welfare and Child-rearing - 24-hour Reliable Support

Saga City has commenced a pilot project for a "Generative AI Consultation Service" from May 2026, offering 24-hour consultation for welfare and child-rearing concerns. This service can be easily used via smartphone, supporting users from organizing their worries to guiding them to relevant support centers.

■ The Current Situation of People Holding Back from Consulting

Consultations regarding welfare and child-rearing continue to increase.
However, a significant number of people find themselves "unable to consult even when they want to."
Reasons include difficulty going out, lack of time, reluctance to speak to others, or not knowing where to seek advice.
Due to these factors, there are cases where people stop at the pre-support stage.

■ AI Becomes the "First Consultant"

This pilot project will test the introduction of a consultation service that leverages the listening capabilities of generative AI.
It can be easily accessed in a chat format via smartphones and tablets, offering the following support:

1. Consult anytime!
2. Consult casually!
3. Find a consultation destination!

By complementing face-to-face and telephone consultations, it expands new entry points for support.

■ Pilot Starts in May 2026

Target: Individuals facing welfare issues, pregnant individuals, and child-rearing households.
Duration: The project will be implemented from May to July 2026.

■ Early Support for Minor Concerns

This initiative aims to bring about the following changes:

* Consultation available regardless of time or place.
* Can be used as a "first step" before talking to a person.
* Helps articulate vague worries, clarifying next steps.
* Smooth connection to necessary support.

It creates a natural flow for people to receive support before their concerns deepen.

■ Thorough Verification for a Better System

During the pilot period, user numbers, satisfaction, ease of consultation, and other factors will be verified.

* How much was it used?
* Has the barrier to consultation been lowered?
* Were users connected to support centers?
* Is the accuracy of responses maintained?

Based on these findings, improvements will be made for full-scale implementation in the future.
Furthermore, there will be no financial burden on the city for this pilot project.

[Contact Information]

* For general welfare inquiries:
Saga City Health and Welfare Department, Welfare General Affairs Division, Policy Section
Phone: 0952-40-7249
E-mail: fukushisomu@city.saga.lg.jp

* For children and child-rearing inquiries:
Saga City Children and Future Department, Child and Family Division, Child-rearing Coordination Section
Phone: 0952-40-7289
E-mail: kodomo@city.saga.lg.jp