British Columbia has introduced legislation that would allow people to get independent advice on their rights after being detained against their will for the treatment of a serious mental disorder.

The province’s Mental Health Act allows people in crisis to be treated for their own protection or that of others.

The Departments of Mental Health and Addictions and the Attorney General say the service is expected to be available next year and will be primarily virtual, using video conferencing and telephones.

They say in a joint statement that the services will be provided by a team of independent rights advisers who will provide information and answer questions about rights and options under the law.

Mental Health and Addictions Minister Sheila Malcolmson says the rights advice service aims to ensure people are treated fairly.

The ministries say the number of involuntary patients admitted to British Columbia has increased significantly in recent years, with the rise of mental health and addictions disorders contributing significantly to this trend.

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British Columbia budget commits $3.2 billion to a stronger health and mental health system