Two residents living in sheltered housing in Wirral have died after being diagnosed with coronavirus.
Both residents lived at Rodney and Nelson Court in New Brighton and died in hospital during the last week.
A spokesperson for social housing provider Onward, who run the complex, said: “Our condolences and thoughts are with their families during this difficult time.
“We also know how concerned and upset their neighbours at the scheme will be to hear this tragic news.”
Rodney and Nelson Court is home to a mix of customers with various needs living independently in their own flats.
There is normally a scheme manager on site at all times, but due to social distancing measures this has not been the case over the last few weeks.
A relative of a resident at the complex was concerned that this might delay treatment for people who have the virus.
But Onward said the absence of a scheme manager does not pose a risk to the security of customers.
A spokesperson for Onward added: “We have adapted our service during the pandemic to provide daily telephone support, daily cleaning and weekly safety inspections to ensure that we provide the best service possible whilst complying with Government guidance.
“Following notification of any coronavirus case we arrange for a deep clean. We also continue to provide 24/7 emergency cover.”
The spokesperson was also keen to reassure residents and the public about care practices at Rodney and Nelson Court.
They said: “Where customers need social or nursing care, this is provided through local authority contracts direct to them.
“This care provision has continued to be delivered and those in need of care should still be receiving it.”
The news comes amid analysis by the Financial Times which suggests as many as 41,000 people may have died in the UK with coronavirus.
The official death toll is 18,796, but those figures do not take into account deaths in care homes or in the community more broadly.
