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“Driving strong local action and tougher restrictions will add further pressure to already over-stretched council budgets. It remains imperative that the Government meets, in full, all the extra costs councils incur as a result of leading communities through the pandemic and income losses they suffer as a result."

“Social care staff have been on the frontline throughout this pandemic and rightly deserve all the protections they need to continue to doing their incredible work."

"Councils will continue to step up to support residents, especially those who are more vulnerable, businesses and education settings."

“Local knowledge and expertise has proved vital in combating COVID-19 and councils want to work with the Government to develop testing strategies which contain and reduce the virus in every area of the country, and for every section of our diverse communities."

“Vaccinating as many people as possible is the only certain way we can get through this pandemic and it is inspiring to see so many volunteers offer their help alongside frontline staff up and down the country."

“Public health funding for councils has reduced by £700 million over the last five years. If we are to build back better post-pandemic and achieve longer, healthier life expectancy for all, we need the right funding now to put in the extra preventative measures to make that happen.”

“Rolling out a vaccine to tens of millions of people is a monumental task, so it is hugely encouraging to see the daily progress on rolling out the vaccine, and councils are in a strong position to support this, working with local health partners using their local knowledge to help ensure our most vulnerable residents are vaccinated as soon as possible.”

“Extra funding to fill staff shortages and free up more experienced colleagues to focus on providing care directly will help with the immediate impact of the virus. Social care has been on the frontline throughout the coronavirus pandemic and our dedicated staff rightly need as much support as possible during this incredibly challenging period.”

“This tragic milestone is a heartbreaking reminder of how many people have lost their lives to this dreadful disease and the terrible toll it has placed on family and friends.”

“The success of the rollout so far is a reflection of the ongoing close partnership between care home managers, councils and the NHS, in line with protecting those in the first four priority groups."