Aug. 21, 2024 Together with Patients Social Contribution Activities
【Supporting People with Psychiatric Diseases in Finding Employment and Social Reintegration through our Special-purpose Subsidiary, Cocowork】
Low employment retention rates among people with psychiatric diseases is a social issue. In addition to focusing on drug discovery for psychiatric diseases, Sumitomo Pharma engages in initiatives to support people with psychiatric diseases that are difficult to resolve with medication alone in taking up employment and social reintegration. Among them is the establishment of our special-purpose subsidiary Cocowork Co., Ltd. (https://www.cocoworkjoy.com/, available in Japanese only). Cocowork started its operations in April 2019.
Please watch the video (in Jpananese only) showcasing the work of Cocowork employees on their 6th anniversary.
（Play time：1:28）
At Cocowork farm, located in Esaka, Suita City, Osaka, employees with psychiatric diseases are engaged in hydroponic and organic cultivation of various leafy vegetables such as frilled lettuce, arugula, and Swiss chard. These 14-15 types of vegetables are not only sold in supermarkets and online but also supplied to selected restaurants. Sumitomo Pharma donates Cocowork’s vegetables to children’s cafeterias in the Esaka area. Although the glass greenhouse becomes extremely hot in the summer, the smiles of their customers provide Cocowork’s employees with the motivation to persevere.
Swiss chard with vibrant stem colors. Soft and suitable for consuming raw in salads.
In addition, Cocowork has started a collaboration with Hiro Coffee, a popular coffee shop in Osaka and Hyogo Prefecture. Cocowork’s employees grind coffee beans and package them into drip bags for sale. By increasing the variety of light tasks, they aim to create a workplace where a more diverse range of individuals can work easily, taking a step towards new dreams such as working in cafes or becoming baristas.
Working carefully on each task amidst the soothing aroma of coffee.
Going forward, Sumitomo Pharma will continue to support the employment of people with psychiatric diseases through the initiatives of its special-purpose subsidiary Cocowork Co., Ltd.