Governing Legislation and Resources for Mental Health (14:II): Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 17:56, 19 August 2025

This information applies to British Columbia, Canada. Last reviewed for legal accuracy by the Law Students' Legal Advice Program on August 20, 2025.

A. Legislation

Adult Guardianship Act, RSBC 1996, c 6 [AGA].

Adult Guardianship and Planning Statutes Amendment Act, S.B.C 2007, c 34 [AGPSAA].

Bill 23, Mental Health Amendment Act, 2022 (assented to 2 June 2022), SBC 2022, c 17.

Criminal Code, R.S 1985, c. C-46 (Part XX.1, Mental Disorder provisions) [CC]

Forensic Psychiatry Act, RSBC 1996 c 156 [FPA].

Health Care (Consent) and Care Facility (Admission) Act, RSBC 1996, c 181 [HCCFA].

Mental Health Act, RSBC 1996, c 288 [MHA].

Mental Health Amendment Act, S.B.C 1968, c 27 [MHAA].

Mental Health Regulations, B.C Reg. 233/99; O.C. 869/99; B.C. Reg. 96/2018, May 15, 2018

Patients Property Act, RSBC 1996, c 349 [PPA].

Power of Attorney Act, RSBC 1996, c 370 [PAA].

Public Guardian and Trustee Act, RSBC 1996, c 383 [PGTA].

Representation Agreement Act, RSBC 1996 c 405 [RAA]

B. Resources

1. Crisis Resources

Crisis Centre of Greater Vancouver

Website: https://crisiscentre.bc.ca/
Toll-free: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
Telephone: (604) 872-3311
24-hour hotline that provides emotional support for clients in distress and refers them to other resources for food, shelter, counselling, and legal advice. Please note this is not a counselling hotline.

Vancouver Coastal Regional Distress Line

Phone: 604-872-3311
Toll-free: 1 (866) 661-3311
TTY: 1 (866) 872-0113
This service is delivered by professionally trained volunteers. The crisis line serves all communities within the Vancouver Coastal Health Region.

Kids Help Phone

Website: https://kidshelpphone.ca
Telephone: 1(800)-668-6868
Text: 686868
Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, confidential support to young people in English and French.
If young people need help right now, they can text a trained, volunteer crisis responder at Kids Help Phone about anything they’re going through. No issue is too big or too small.
Young people can work with a professional counsellor at Kids Help Phone over the phone or through online chat to better understand what they’re going through.

2. Counselling Services

Counselling is an invaluable resource for those experiencing distress resulting from legal issues. Some counsellors may also provide integrated case management for those suffering from more severe disorders and requiring greater support.

Broadway Youth Resource Centre (BYRC)

2455 Fraser Street, Vancouver, BC V5T 0E6
Telephone: (604) 709-5720
Fax: (604) 709-5721
Email: byrc@pcrs.ca
Website: https://pcrs.ca/service-resource-centres/broadway-youth-resource-centre-2/
Offers counselling and support services in areas of youth and family, anger management, addiction, housing, employment, sexual orientation and/or gender identity. These services are offered without charge.

Foundry BC

Website: https://foundrybc.ca
Central Office email: info@foundrybc.ca
Foundry is a province-wide network of integrated health and wellness services for young people ages 12-24.
Foundry’s integrated services make it possible for young people to access five core services in one convenient location: mental health care, substance use services, physical and sexual health care, youth and family peer supports, and social services.
Young people can access integrated services by walking into one of our 16 local Foundry centres, exploring online tools and resources at foundrybc.ca, or connecting virtually through the free Foundry BC app.

Other Counselling Options

Website: https://willowtreecounselling.ca/wp-content/themes/willowtree/reduced-cost-counselling.pdf
This PDF provides an excellent list of options for reduced cost counselling services, compiled by Megan Sutherland of Willow Tree Counselling (https://willowtreecounselling.ca/).

3. Advocacy Resources

Access Pro Bono (Greater Vancouver and Victoria)

300 – 845 Cambie St., Vancouver, BC V6B 4Z9
Toll-free: 1-877-762-6664
Website: www.accessprobono.ca/
Provides advice on rights pertaining to mental health law upon appointment.
May be available for habeas corpus applications, section 33 applications under the MHA, as well as applications for judicial review of Mental Health Review Board hearing decisions.

Peer Navigator Program (Canadian Mental Health Association)

110 – 2425 Quebec St., Vancouver, BC V5T 4L6
Telephone: (604) 872-3148
Email: peer.navigator@cmha.bc.ca
Website: https://vancouver-fraser.cMHA.bc.ca/programs-services/peer-navigator/
Provides peer-based support on a wide breadth of issues surrounding mental health, housing, income assistance, legal aid and community connections.

Disability Alliance BC

1450-605 Robson St., Vancouver, BC V6B 5J3
TTY: (604) 875-8835
Toll-free: 1-800-663-1278
Website: https://disabilityalliancebc.org/
A self-help umbrella group that raises public awareness about issues affecting people with disabilities.
Their Disability Law Clinic (DLC) Legal Services program provides free and confidential summary advice and referral services on issues pertaining to accessibility laws, discrimination/human rights, access to services, and accommodation in the workplace.
A great resource for people with any type of disability (mental or physical) that can provide assistance with a wide range of legal and non-legal issues.
Clients should contact the Advocacy Access number, provided above.

B.C Human Rights Clinic (CLAS)

1140 West Pender St., Vancouver, BC V6E 4G1
Telephone: (604) 622-1100
Toll-free: 1-855-685-6222
Fax: (604) 685-7611

Website: https://bchrc.net/

Provides informational services and an advocacy program to protect human rights and prevent discrimination.

Community Legal Assistance Society (CLAS)’s Mental Health Law Program

1140 West Pender St., Vancouver, BC V6E 4G1
Telephone: (604) 685-3425
Fax: (604) 685-7611
Website: www.clasbc.net/
Provides representation for involuntarily detained patients who have tribunal hearings either under the MHA or the mental disorder provisions of the Criminal Code. Other CLAS programs provide free legal services in areas such as housing, workers’ rights, E.I., sexual harassment in the workplace, and human rights.

COAST Foundation Society

293 East 11th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 2C4
Email: info@coastmentalhealth.com
Telephone: (604) 872-3502
Website: www.coastmentalhealth.com
Toll-Free: 1-877-602-6278
Fax: 604-879-2363
Provides a variety of mental health services, including a mental health resource centre and community or shared housing options.

Kettle Friendship Society

1725 Venables Street, Vancouver, BC V5L 2H3
Telephone: (604) 251-2801
Fax: 604-251-6354
Website: www.thekettle.ca
A non-profit agency providing support and services to those suffering from mental illness. Services include housing assistance, employment advocacy, and an on-site health clinic.

Legal Aid BC

400-510 Burrard St., Vancouver, BC V6C 3A8
Telephone: (604)-408-2172
Toll-free: 1-866-577-2525
Website: www.legalaid.bc.ca/
Legal Aid BC is a provincial Crown Corporation. LABC was created by the Legal Services Society (LSS) Act in 1979 to provide legal information, advice, and representation services. Their priority is to serve the interests of people experiencing barriers accessing the legal system. Some of the services are available to all British Columbians.
Clients can get legal representation if they face prison issues for which the Charter of Rights and Freedoms provides the right to a lawyer.

Motivation, Power, and Achievement Society (MPA)

122 Powell St., Vancouver, BC V6A 1G1
Telephone: (604) 482-3700
Fax: (604) 738-4132
Court Services: (604) 688-3417’
Website: www.mpa-society.org
Offers information, counselling, and representation for Review Panels.
The Court Services Program assists clients who have a mental health disability during the criminal court process. Clients may also be assisted following court appearances (e.g., with bail or probation orders).

Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry

Website: https://www.nidus.ca/
A non-profit organization that provides information about personal planning, specializing in Representation Agreements, and operates a centralized Registry for personal planning documents.
Website includes self-help guides and templates.

Independent Rights Advice Service (IRAS)

Website: https://irasbc.ca/the-service/#
The Independent Rights Advice Service (IRAS) helps people who are detained and experiencing involuntary treatment under the Mental Health Act in BC.
The Service connects you with a Rights Advisor, who provides information on legal rights as an involuntary patient, and how to act on those rights.
Patients can talk to a Rights Advisor through a Rights Advice meeting, which is private.
Patients can request a Rights Advice meeting by speaking to their treatment team.

4. Government Resources

British Columbia Review Board

Website: http://www.bcrb.ca
Telephone: (604) 660-8789
Toll-Free: 1-877-305-2277
Fax: (604) 660-8809
Makes review dispositions where individuals charged with criminal offences have been given verdicts of “Not Criminally Responsible” (NCR) on account of mental disorder or “Unfit to Stand Trial” UST on account of mental disorder, by a court.

Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division

905-1130 West Pender St
Vancouver, BC V6E 4A4
Telephone: (604) 688-3234
Toll-free: 1-800-555-8222
Fax: (604) 688-3236
Email: info@cmha.bc.ca
Website: www.cmha.bc.ca/
Provides recovery-focused programs and services to promote good mental health and includes resources for youth and adults.

Department of Justice

Website: https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/
The Department of Justice website contains all federal statutes, information about the Canadian justice system, and links to related websites.

Guide to the Mental Health Act

Website: https://www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2005/guide-mental-health-act.pdf
Provides plain-language explanations regarding the MHA and its implications for those who are impacted by it.

Representing Clients Impacted by Coercive Mental Health and Substance Use Health Laws: Legal Research and *Resource Guide

Website: https://www.healthjustice.ca/for-lawyers-legal-advocates
A guide by Health Justice that provides an overview of legal research and resources for lawyers and advocates to represent affected clients.
Downloadable PDF is available at the above link.

Mental Health Review Board

Website: https://www.bcmhrb.ca/
Telephone: (604) 660-2325
Responsible for conducting reviews of involuntarily admitted patients under the MHA. Their website provides frequently asked questions, rules, and other helpful links.

Ministry of Health Services

Website: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/health-forms/mental-health-forms
Downloadable MHA forms are available on their website.

Public Guardian and Trustee of BC (PGT)

700-808 West Hastings
Vancouver, BC V6C 3L3
Telephone: (604) 660-4444
Fax: (604) 660-0374
Website: http://www.trustee.bc.ca
An independent, impartial public official and Officer of the Court who serves to balance protection with autonomy and to ensure that people may live as they choose with the support of family and friends.
Offers Child and Youth Services; namely, upholds and protects the rights of those under the age of 19 by reviewing all personal injury settlements, legal contracts, trusts and estates involving minors, and by ensuring that children are properly represented in all legal matters.
Acts as guardian of estate for children who are in provincial government care and for those undergoing adoption.
Services to Adults are primarily to uphold the rights of adults who are unable to manage their own affairs. This role includes helping them with financial and legal matters and supporting their lifestyle and health care decisions.
Estate Administration settles the estates of deceased persons when there is no named executor or when there is no one willing or able to act as executor. This includes securing assets, settling debts and claims against the estate, and identifying and locating heirs and beneficiaries.

Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN)

205-175 East Broadway St
Vancouver, BC V5T 1W2
Telephone: (604) 439-9566
Fax: (604) 439-7001
Website: www.plan.ca
Provides advocacy services and up-to-date legal information on wills and estates, trustees, and financial planning. PLAN also works with families in developing personal support networks for relatives with disabilities and provides advocacy and monitoring services for families whose parents have passed away.

Representative for Children and Youth (RCYBC)

Website: https://rcybc.ca/
Telephone: 1-800-476-3933
Supports children, youth, and some young adults receiving services or programs provided for or funded by the government, including addiction services, mental health services, and children and youth with special needs.

Vancouver Access & Assessment Centre (AAC)

Website: http://www.vch.ca/locations-services/result?res_id=1186
Telephone: 1-604-675-3700
Located at Vancouver General Hospital, the AAC offers short term treatment on-site, by telephone, and by mobile response. Clinical staff, including registered nurses, social workers, and psychiatrists, provide 24/7 support, stabilization, and crisis management to clients.
To be eligible for this service, clients need to be 17 years of age or older, and a resident of Vancouver.

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
+{{REVIEWED LSLAP | date= August 20, 2025}}
 {{LSLAP Manual TOC|expanded = mentalhealth}}
 == A. Legislation ==
-''Adult Guardianship Act'', RSBC 1996, c 6 [AGA].
+''Adult Guardianship Act'', RSBC 1996, c 6 [''AGA''].
-''Adult Guardianship and Planning Statutes Amendment Act'', S.B.C 2007, c 34 [AGPSAA].
+''Adult Guardianship and Planning Statutes Amendment Act'', S.B.C 2007, c 34 [''AGPSAA''].
-''Criminal Code of Canada'', R.S 1985, c. C-46 (Part XX.1, Mental Disorder provisions) [CCC].
+Bill 23, ''Mental Health Amendment Act'', 2022 (assented to 2 June 2022), SBC 2022, c 17.
-''Forensic Psychiatry Act'', RSBC 1996 c 156 [FPA].
+''Criminal Code'', R.S 1985, c. C-46 (Part XX.1, Mental Disorder provisions) [CC]
-''Health Care (Consent) and Care Facility (Admission) Act'', RSBC 1996, c 181 [HCCFA].
+''Forensic Psychiatry Act'', RSBC 1996 c 156 [''FPA''].
-''Mental Health Act'', RSBC 1996, c 288 [MHA].
+Health Care (Consent) and Care Facility (Admission) Act, RSBC 1996, c 181 [''HCCFA''].
-''Mental Health Amendment Act'', S.B.C 1968, c 27 [MHAA].
+''Mental Health Act'', RSBC 1996, c 288 [''MHA''].
-''Patients Property Act'', RSBC 1996, c 349 [PPA].
+''Mental Health Amendment Act'', S.B.C 1968, c 27 [''MHAA''].
-''Power of Attorney Act'', RSBC 1996, c 370 [PAA].
+''Mental Health Regulations'', B.C Reg. 233/99; O.C. 869/99; B.C. Reg. 96/2018, May 15, 2018
-''Public Guardian and Trustee Act'', RSBC 1996, c 38 [PGTA].
+''Patients Property Act'', RSBC 1996, c 349 [''PPA''].
+''Power of Attorney Act'', RSBC 1996, c 370 [''PAA''].
-''Representation Agreement Act'', RSBC 1996 c 405 [RAA]
+''Public Guardian and Trustee Act'', RSBC 1996, c 383 [''PGTA''].
+''Representation Agreement Act'', RSBC 1996 c 405 [''RAA'']
 == B. Resources ==
-=== 1. Counselling Services ===
+=== 1. Crisis Resources ===
-Counselling is an invaluable resource for those experiencing distress resulting from legal issues. Some counsellors may also provide  integrated case management for people that are suffering from more severe disorders and require greater support.
+==== Crisis Centre of Greater Vancouver ====
+*Website: https://crisiscentre.bc.ca/
+*Toll-free: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
+*Telephone: (604) 872-3311
+*24-hour hotline that provides emotional support for clients in distress and refers them to other resources for food, shelter, counselling, and legal advice. Please note this is not a counselling hotline.
-==== Broadway Youth Resource Centre (BYRC) ====
+==== Vancouver Coastal Regional Distress Line ====
-Offers counselling and support services in areas of youth and family, anger management, addictions, and sexual orientation and/or gender identity issues.
+*Phone: 604-872-3311
-{{ResourcesLSLAP
+*Toll-free: 1 (866) 661-3311
-| address = 2455 Fraser Street <br /> Vancouver, BC V5T 0E6
+*TTY: 1 (866) 872-0113
-| phone = Telephone: (604)-709-5720 <br /> Fax: (604) 709-5721
+*This service is delivered by professionally trained volunteers. The crisis line serves all communities within the Vancouver Coastal Health Region.
-| online = [http://www.pcrs.ca/ Website] <br />
-}}
-==== Peace Portal Counselling Centre ====
+==== Kids Help Phone ====
-Provides professional counselling services, including services of a clinical psychologist. Office is wheelchair accessible to serve clients from Abbotsford, Delta, Langley, Surrey, and White Rock. Evening appointments are available two days per week.
+*Website: https://kidshelpphone.ca
-{{ResourcesLSLAP
+*Telephone: 1(800)-668-6868
-| address = c/o Peace Portal Alliance Church <br /> 15128 27B Avenue <br /> Surrey, BC V4P 1P2
+*Text: 686868
-| phone = (604) 542-2501 <br /> Fax: (604) 542-2504
+*Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, confidential support to young people in English and French.
-| online = [http://www.peaceportalalliance.com/ Website] <br /> Email: counselling@peaceportalalliance.com
+*If young people need help right now, they can text a trained, volunteer crisis responder at Kids Help Phone about anything they’re going through. No issue is too big or too small.
-}}
+*Young people can work with a professional counsellor at Kids Help Phone over the phone or through online chat to better understand what they’re going through.
-==== New Westminster UBC Counselling Centre ====
+=== 2. Counselling Services ===
-Provides personal and career counselling from counsellors in training. Appointments are available days and evenings from '''September to June'''. Priority is given to New Westminster residents, but all lower mainland residents are welcome. They do not charge a fee for their services.
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_addressphone
-| address = University of British Columbia <br /> 821 8th Street <br /> New Westminster, BC V3M 3S9
-| phone = (604) 525-6651 <br /> Fax: (604) 517-6102
-}}
-==== Oak Counselling Services Society ====
+Counselling is an invaluable resource for those experiencing distress resulting from legal issues. Some counsellors may also provide integrated case management for those suffering from more severe disorders and requiring greater support.
-Offers professionally-supervised counselling for issues such as grief, relationships and life transitions. Fees are based on a sliding scale, ranging upwards from $10 per session.
-{{ResourcesLSLAP
-| address = 949 West 49th Avenue <br /> Vancouver, BC V5Z 2T1
-| phone = Voicemail: (604)-266-5611 <br /> Fax: (604) 261-7205
-| online = [http://www.oakcounselling.org/ Website] <br /> E-mail: info@oakcounselling.org
-}}
-=== 2. Advocacy Resources ===
+==== Broadway Youth Resource Centre (BYRC) ====
+*2455 Fraser Street, Vancouver, BC V5T 0E6
+*Telephone: (604) 709-5720
+*Fax: (604) 709-5721
+*Email: byrc@pcrs.ca
+*Website: https://pcrs.ca/service-resource-centres/broadway-youth-resource-centre-2/
+*Offers counselling and support services in areas of youth and family, anger management, addiction, housing, employment, sexual orientation and/or gender identity. These services are offered without charge.
-==== ARA Mental Health Action Research and Advocacy Association of Greater Vancouver ====
+==== Foundry BC ====
-Advocates for people with mental health concerns, addressing issues including income assistance, tenancy, employment, education, medical/dental, substance abuse, appeals and tribunals.
+*Website: https://foundrybc.ca
-{{ResourcesLSLAP
+*Central Office email: info@foundrybc.ca
-| address = 163 W Pender <br /> Vancouver, BC V6B 1S4
+*Foundry is a province-wide network of integrated health and wellness services for young people ages 12-24.
-| phone = (604) 689-7938 <br /> Toll-free: 1-866-689-7938 <br /> Fax: (604) 689-7318
+*Foundry’s integrated services make it possible for young people to access five core services in one convenient location: mental health care, substance use services, physical and sexual health care, youth and family peer supports, and social services.
-| online = [http://www.aramentalhealth.org/ Website] <br /> Email: advocacy@aramentalhealth.org
+*Young people can access integrated services by walking into one of our 16 local Foundry centres, exploring online tools and resources at foundrybc.ca, or connecting virtually through the free Foundry BC app.
-}}
-==== Access Pro Bono (Greater Vancouver and Victoria) ====
+==== Other Counselling Options ====
-Lawyers can sometimes provide representation at review panel hearings on a case by case basis.
+*Website: https://willowtreecounselling.ca/wp-content/themes/willowtree/reduced-cost-counselling.pdf
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_addressphone
+*This PDF provides an excellent list of options for reduced cost counselling services, compiled by Megan Sutherland of Willow Tree Counselling (https://willowtreecounselling.ca/).
-| address = 300 - 845 Cambie St <br /> Vancouver, BC
-| phone = Toll-free: 1-877-762-6664
-}}
-==== Peer Navigation (Canadian Mental Health Association) ====
+=== 3. Advocacy Resources ===
-Provides peer-based support on a wide breadth of issues surrounding mental health, housing, income assistance, legal aid and community connections.
-{{ResourcesLSLAP
-| address = 110 - 2425 Quebec St. <br /> Vancouver, BC 5TB 4L6
-| phone = (604) 872-3148
-| online = [http://www.vancouver-fraser.cmha.bc.ca/ Website] <br /> Email: peer.navigation@cmha.bc.ca
-}}
-==== Disability Alliance BC (formerly BC Coalition of People with Disabilities) ====
+====Access Pro Bono (Greater Vancouver and Victoria)====
-*A self-help umbrella group that raises public awareness of issues affecting people with disabilities.
+*300 – 845 Cambie St., Vancouver, BC V6B 4Z9
-*A great resource for people with any type of disability (mental or physical) that can provide help with a wide range of legal and non-legal issues.
+*Toll-free: 1-877-762-6664
-*Clients should contact the Advocacy Access number, below.
+*Website: www.accessprobono.ca/
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Provides advice on rights pertaining to mental health law upon appointment.
-| phone = (604) 875-0188 <br /> TTY: (604) 875-8835 <br /> Toll-free: 1-800-663-1278
+*May be available for habeas corpus applications, section 33 applications under the ''MHA'', as well as applications for judicial review of Mental Health Review Board hearing decisions.
-| online = [http://www.bccpd.bc.ca Website]
-}}
-==== Disability Alliance BC Advocacy Access team ====
+====Peer Navigator Program (Canadian Mental Health Association)====
-Informs people with disabilities of their legal and social rights, provides lawyer referrals in disputes and holds educational workshops.
+*110 – 2425 Quebec St., Vancouver, BC V5T 4L6
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Telephone: (604) 872-3148
-| phone = (604) 872-1278 <br /> Toll-free: 1-800-663-1278
+*Email: peer.navigator@cmha.bc.ca
-}}
+*Website: https://vancouver-fraser.cMHA.bc.ca/programs-services/peer-navigator/
+*Provides peer-based support on a wide breadth of issues surrounding mental health, housing, income assistance, legal aid and community connections.
-==== B.C Human Rights Clinic ====
+====Disability Alliance BC====
-Provides informational services and an advocacy programme to protect human rights and prevent discrimination.
+*1450-605 Robson St., Vancouver, BC V6B 5J3
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*TTY: (604) 875-8835
-| phone = (604) 622-1100 <br /> Toll-free: 1-855-685-6222 <br /> Fax: (604) 685-7611
+*Toll-free: 1-800-663-1278
-| online = [http://www.bchrcoalition.org Website]
+*Website: https://disabilityalliancebc.org/
-}}
+*A self-help umbrella group that raises public awareness about issues affecting people with disabilities.
+*Their Disability Law Clinic (DLC) Legal Services program provides free and confidential summary advice and referral services on issues pertaining to accessibility laws, discrimination/human rights, access to services, and accommodation in the workplace.
+*A great resource for people with any type of disability (mental or physical) that can provide assistance with a wide range of legal and non-legal issues.
+*Clients should contact the Advocacy Access number, provided above.
-==== Community Legal Assistance Society (CLAS)’s Mental Health Law Program ====
+====B.C Human Rights Clinic (CLAS)====
-Provides information on civil commitment, procedure, the rights of mental patients and the MHA amendments. Other CLAS programs provide free legal services in specific areas such as tenants’ rights, E.I., W.BC and human rights.
+*1140 West Pender St., Vancouver, BC V6E 4G1
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Telephone: (604) 622-1100
-| phone = (604) 685-3425 <br /> Fax: (604) 685-7611
+*Toll-free: 1-855-685-6222
-| online = [http://www.clasbc.net/ Website]
+*Fax: (604) 685-7611
-}}
+Website: https://bchrc.net/
+*Provides informational services and an advocacy program to protect human rights and prevent discrimination.
-==== British Columbia Review Board ====
+====Community Legal Assistance Society (CLAS)’s Mental Health Law Program====
-Makes review dispositions where individuals charged with criminal offences have been given verdicts of not criminally responsible on account of mental disorder or unfit to stand trial on account of mental disorder, by a court.
+*1140 West Pender St., Vancouver, BC V6E 4G1
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Telephone: (604) 685-3425
-| phone = (604) 660-8789 <br /> Toll-Free: 1-877-305-2277 <br /> Fax: (604) 660-8809
+*Fax: (604) 685-7611
-| online = [http://www.bcrb.bc.ca Website]
+*Website: www.clasbc.net/
-}}
+*Provides representation for involuntarily detained patients who have tribunal hearings either under the ''MHA'' or the mental disorder provisions of the ''Criminal Code''. Other CLAS programs provide free legal services in areas such as housing, workers’ rights, E.I., sexual harassment in the workplace, and human rights.
-==== COAST Foundation Society ====
+====COAST Foundation Society====
-Provides a variety of mental health services, including a mental health resource centre and community or shared housing options.
+*293 East 11th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 2C4
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Email: info@coastmentalhealth.com
-| phone = (604) 872-3502 <br /> Toll-Free: 1-877-602-6278 <br /> Fax: 604-879-2363
+*Telephone: (604) 872-3502
-| online = [http://www.coastmentalhealth.com Website] <br /> Email: info@coastmentalhealth.com
+*Website: www.coastmentalhealth.com
-}}
+*Toll-Free: 1-877-602-6278
+*Fax: 604-879-2363
+*Provides a variety of mental health services, including a mental health resource centre and community or shared housing options.
-==== Crisis Centre of Greater Vancouver ====
+====Kettle Friendship Society====
-hour hotline that provides emotional support for clients in distress and refers them to other resources for food, shelter,  counselling and legal advice. '''Please note this is not a counselling hotline.'''
+*1725 Venables Street, Vancouver, BC V5L 2H3
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Telephone: (604) 251-2801
-| phone = (604) 872-3311 <br /> Toll-free: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
+*Fax: 604-251-6354
-}}
+*Website: www.thekettle.ca
+*A non-profit agency providing support and services to those suffering from mental illness. Services include housing assistance, employment advocacy, and an on-site health clinic.
-==== The Kettle Friendship Society ====
+====Legal Aid BC====
-A non-profit agency providing support and services to those suffering from mental illness. Services include providing housing  assistance, employment advocacy and an on-site health clinic.
+*400-510 Burrard St., Vancouver, BC V6C 3A8
-{{ResourcesLSLAP
+*Telephone: (604)-408-2172
-| address = 1725 Venables St. <br /> Vancouver, BC V5L 2H3
+*Toll-free: 1-866-577-2525
-| phone = (604) 251-2801 <br /> Fax: 604-251-6354
+*Website: www.legalaid.bc.ca/
-| online = [http://www.thekettle.ca Website]
+*Legal Aid BC is a provincial Crown Corporation. LABC was created by the Legal Services Society (LSS) Act in 1979 to provide legal information, advice, and representation services. Their priority is to serve the interests of people experiencing barriers accessing the legal system. Some of the services are available to all British Columbians.
-}}
+*Clients can get legal representation if they face prison issues for which the Charter of Rights and Freedoms provides the right to a lawyer.
-==== Motivation, Power, and Achievement Society (MPA) ====
+====Motivation, Power, and Achievement Society (MPA)====
-Offers information, counselling and representation for Review panels.
+*122 Powell St., Vancouver, BC V6A 1G1
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Telephone: (604) 482-3700
-| phone = (604) 482-3700 <br /> Fax: (604) 738-4132
+*Fax: (604) 738-4132
-| online = [http://www.mpa-society.org Website]
+*Court Services: (604) 688-3417’
-}}
+*Website: www.mpa-society.org
+*Offers information, counselling, and representation for Review Panels.
+*The Court Services Program assists clients who have a mental health disability during the criminal court process. Clients may also be assisted following court appearances (e.g., with bail or probation orders).
-==== Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry ====
+====Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry====
-*A non-profit organization that provides information about personal planning, specializing in Representation Agreements and operates a centralized Registry for personal planning documents.
+*Website: https://www.nidus.ca/
+*A non-profit organization that provides information about personal planning, specializing in Representation Agreements, and operates a centralized Registry for personal planning documents.
 *Website includes self-help guides and templates.
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_online
-| online = [http://www.nidus.ca Website]
-}}
-===3. Government Resources===
+====Independent Rights Advice Service (IRAS)====
+*Website: https://irasbc.ca/the-service/#
+*The Independent Rights Advice Service (IRAS) helps people who are detained and experiencing involuntary treatment under the ''Mental Health Act'' in BC.
+*The Service connects you with a Rights Advisor, who provides information on legal rights as an involuntary patient, and how to act on those rights.
+*Patients can talk to a Rights Advisor through a Rights Advice meeting, which is private.
+*Patients can request a Rights Advice meeting by speaking to their treatment team.
-'''British Columbia Review Board'''
+===4. Government Resources===
-*Makes review dispositions where individuals charged with criminal offences have been given verdicts of not criminally responsible on account of mental disorder or unfit to stand trial on account of mental disorder, by a court.
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
-| phone = (604) 660-8789 <br /> Toll-free: 1-877-305-2277 <br /> Fax: (604) 660-8809
-| online = [http://www.bcrb.bc.ca/ Website] <br />
-}}
-'''Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division'''
+====British Columbia Review Board====
+*Website: http://www.bcrb.ca
+*Telephone: (604) 660-8789
+*Toll-Free: 1-877-305-2277
+*Fax: (604) 660-8809
+*Makes review dispositions where individuals charged with criminal offences have been given verdicts of “Not Criminally Responsible” (NCR) on account of mental disorder or “Unfit to Stand Trial” UST on account of mental disorder, by a court.
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+====Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division ====
-| phone = (604) 688-3234 <br /> Toll-free: 1-800-555-8222 <br /> Fax: (604) 688-3236
+*905-1130 West Pender St
-| online = [http://www.cmha.bc.ca/ Website] <br /> Email: info@cmha.bc.ca
+*Vancouver, BC V6E 4A4
-}}
+*Telephone: (604) 688-3234
+*Toll-free: 1-800-555-8222
+*Fax: (604) 688-3236
+*Email: info@cmha.bc.ca
+*Website: www.cmha.bc.ca/
+*Provides recovery-focused programs and services to promote good mental health and includes resources for youth and adults.
-'''Department of Justice'''
+====Department of Justice ====
-*Website contains all federal statutes and links to related sites.
+*Website: https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_online
+*The Department of Justice website contains all federal statutes, information about the Canadian justice system, and links to related websites.
-| online = [http://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/ Website]
-}}
-'''Guide to the Mental Health Act'''
+====Guide to the ''Mental Health Act''====
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_online
+*Website: https://www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2005/guide-mental-health-act.pdf
-| online = [http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/mhd/mentalhealthact.html Website]
+*Provides plain-language explanations regarding the ''MHA'' and its implications for those who are impacted by it.
-}}
-'''Mental Health Review Board'''
+====Representing Clients Impacted by Coercive Mental Health and Substance Use Health Laws: Legal Research and *Resource Guide====
-*Responsible for conducting reviews of involuntarily admitted patients.
+*Website: https://www.healthjustice.ca/for-lawyers-legal-advocates
-*Website provides FAQ, Rules, and other helpful links.
+*A guide by Health Justice that provides an overview of legal research and resources for lawyers and advocates to represent affected clients.
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Downloadable PDF is available at the above link.
-| phone = (604) 660-2325
-| online = [http://www.mentalhealthreviewboard.gov.bc.ca/ Website]
-}}
-'''Ministry of Health Services'''
+====Mental Health Review Board====
-*Provides downloadable ''Mental Health Act'' forms on their website.
+*Website: https://www.bcmhrb.ca/
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_online
+*Telephone: (604) 660-2325
-| online = [http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/mhd/mental_health_act_forms.html Website]
+*Responsible for conducting reviews of involuntarily admitted patients under the ''MHA''. Their website provides frequently asked questions, rules, and other helpful links.
-}}
-'''MPA Court Services'''
+====Ministry of Health Services====
-Court workers assist clients with a mental health disability during the criminal court process. Clients may also be assisted  following court appearances (e.g. with bail or probation orders).
+*Website: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/health-forms/mental-health-forms
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Downloadable ''MHA'' forms are available on their website.
-| phone = (604) 688-3417 <br /> Vancouver area: (604) 660-4292 <br /> Surrey area: (604) 572-2405
-}}
-'''Public Guardian and Trustee of BC (PGT)'''
+====Public Guardian and Trustee of BC (PGT)====
-*An independent, impartial public official and Officer of the Court who serves to  balance protection with autonomy and to ensure people may live as they choose with the support of family and friends.
+*700-808 West Hastings
-*Offers '''Child and Youth Services'''; namely upholds and protects the rights of those under the age of 19 by reviewing all personal injury settlements, legal contracts, trusts and estates involving minors and ensuring that children are properly represented in all legal matters that affect their lives.
+*Vancouver, BC V6C 3L3
+*Telephone: (604) 660-4444
+*Fax: (604) 660-0374
+*Website: http://www.trustee.bc.ca
+*An independent, impartial public official and Officer of the Court who serves to balance protection with autonomy and to ensure that people may live as they choose with the support of family and friends.
+*Offers Child and Youth Services; namely, upholds and protects the rights of those under the age of 19 by reviewing all personal injury settlements, legal contracts, trusts and estates involving minors, and by ensuring that children are properly represented in all legal matters.
 *Acts as guardian of estate for children who are in provincial government care and for those undergoing adoption.
-*'''Services to Adults''' are primarily to uphold the rights of adults who are unable to manage their own affairs. This role includes helping them with financial and legal matters and supporting their lifestyle and health care decisions.
+*Services to Adults are primarily to uphold the rights of adults who are unable to manage their own affairs. This role includes helping them with financial and legal matters and supporting their lifestyle and health care decisions.
-*'''Estate Administration''' settles the estates of deceased persons when there is no named executor or when there is no one willing or able to act as executor. This includes securing assets, settling debts and claims against the estate and identifying and locating heirs and beneficiaries.
+*Estate Administration settles the estates of deceased persons when there is no named executor or when there is no one willing or able to act as executor. This includes securing assets, settling debts and claims against the estate, and identifying and locating heirs and beneficiaries.
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
-| phone = (604) 660-4444 <br /> Fax: (604) 660-0374
+====Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN)====
-| online = [http://www.trustee.bc.ca Website]
+*205-175 East Broadway St
-}}
+*Vancouver, BC V5T 1W2
+*Telephone: (604) 439-9566
+*Fax: (604) 439-7001
+*Website: www.plan.ca
+*Provides advocacy services and up-to-date legal information on wills and estates, trustees, and financial planning. PLAN also works with families in developing personal support networks for relatives with disabilities and provides advocacy and monitoring services for families whose parents have passed away.
-'''Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN)'''
+====Representative for Children and Youth (RCYBC) ====
-Provides advocacy services and up-to-date legal information on wills and estates, trustees and financial planning. Also, works with families in developing personal support networks for relatives with disabilities and provides advocacy and monitoring services for families whose parents have passed away
+*Website: https://rcybc.ca/
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Telephone: 1-800-476-3933
-| phone = (604) 439-9566 <br /> Fax: (604) 439-7001
+*Supports children, youth, and some young adults receiving services or programs provided for or funded by the government, including addiction services, mental health services, and children and youth with special needs.
-| online = [http://www.plan.ca Website]
-}}
-'''Vancouver Mental Health Emergency Services'''
+====Vancouver Access & Assessment Centre (AAC)====
-*A partnership between Vancouver Coastal Health and the Vancouver Police Department that provides rapid assistance in cases of mental health-related emergencies within the city limits of Vancouver
+*Website: http://www.vch.ca/locations-services/result?res_id=1186
-*Offers a 24 hour Crisis Line and can provide specially trained police and nurse services when necessary
+*Telephone: 1-604-675-3700
-{{ResourcesLSLAP_phoneonline
+*Located at Vancouver General Hospital, the AAC offers short term treatment on-site, by telephone, and by mobile response. Clinical staff, including registered nurses, social workers, and psychiatrists, provide 24/7 support, stabilization, and crisis management to clients.
-| phone = (604) 874-7307 or via 911
+*To be eligible for this service, clients need to be 17 years of age or older, and a resident of Vancouver.
-}}
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