Two women have been charged over allegations of abuse at a Fife care home.

A total of four people have been suspended while an investigation is launched into claims an elderly resident was assaulted at the Chapel Level home in Kirkcaldy.

Fife Council’s social work department and the Care Inspectorate is also involved in the inquiry.

The 60-bed care home, which is privately run by care provider HC-One, provides dementia, nursing and residential care.

It is understood the assault allegations came to light after another member of staff brought it to the attention of managers.

Relatives were informed of the incident at a meeting following the alleged assault, which was reported to have taken place over the weekend of January 22-24.

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "Police in Kirkcaldy investigating allegations of assault in a care home in Broom Road have arrested and charged two women aged 57 and 61. A report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal."

A spokesman for the home said: "Following serious allegations being brought to our attention, we acted immediately to suspend the staff members involved and inform all appropriate authorities. We are deeply concerned by these allegations, which go against everything we stand for as an organisation.

“We are working closely with the police and all relevant authorities to investigate what has taken place. We will always act to protect individuals in our care."

Martin Thom, Fife Council’s older people’s services manager, said the well-being of Fife’s most vulnerable people was the local authority's "top priority".

He added: "We are working closely with Police Scotland, the Care Inspectorate and the care home."

A spokesman for the Care Inspectorate confirmed it had been notified of an incident at Chapel Level Care Home.

He said: "The safety and well-being of everyone who accesses care is always our first priority and we are working closely with colleagues at Police Scotland and Fife Council to ensure residents are kept safe at Chapel Level Home. Everyone in Scotland has the right to safe, compassionate care which meets their needs and respects their rights."

He urged anyone with a concern about a care service to contact the inspectorate on 0345 600 9527.