All non-essential visits to care homes will be limited until further notice due to the spread of coronavirus, West Dunbartonshire Council has announced.

A statement on the council’s Facebook page reads: “The health and safety of our residents is paramount and we are maintaining our stringent health and safety practices and have protocols in place to reduce the impact in our care homes.

“In order to maintain contact between friends and family members, we are encouraging increased interaction via social media, letters and video calls.

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“In addition, we’re introducing a new online facility to provide regular updates to families on their relatives.

“We would like to thank residents, relatives and friends for their continued understanding and support.”

For more information, West Dunbartonshire Council has issued a statement which can be read at west-dunbarton.gov.uk/public-health-protection/coronavirus.