Japan's education and welfare ministries have requested local authorities to improve counseling support for children of the members of a religious group formerly known as the Unification Church.

The ministries aim to respond to cases, such as when children are bullied because their parents are group followers, or are being neglected by their parents because they have become engrossed in religion.

The ministries' request called on schools and child consultation centers not to be reluctant to help the children because of reasons concerning religion.

The education ministry requested improvements in consultation systems so teachers can swiftly deal with children who are having problems and direct them to school counselors for mental care, if needed.

The welfare ministry listed possible child abuse cases even if such acts are for religious reasons. They include physical violence, not giving proper meals, not providing medical care despite becoming seriously ill, as well as verbal threats and repeated acts that may hurt a child's feelings.

The ministry officials say local municipalities and child consultation centers should stand on the side of children in determining whether they are being abused.