The Shetlands Islands Councilis one of 32 councils in Scotland, serving 22,400 people across 1,468 square km. The Council is organised into five directorates and a number of service areas. These are responsible for overseeing Council services and differ in size and function. Some are involved in the direct provision of services to the public; others provide support to Councillors and departments. The Council has 22 elected members, serving on 6 three-member wards and 1 four-member ward.