Responding to the NRS figures published today (Wednesday) COSLA President Councillor Alison Evison said:  “Every single death is a tragedy within a family be that at home, in hospital or in a care home.

“What needs to be remembered here is that these are real people we are talking about, people who loved and were loved and it is vital that we all recognise and remember each and every one as such.

“It should also be clear, from the commitment shown by councillors and staff across the country that Councils take their duty of care to all very seriously be that a young person at a nursery or an older person in one of our care settings.

“Local Government will continue to follow the clinical guidance and work with the health professionals in relation to our care homes.”