The Back Home Program [Programa De Volta Para Casa - PVC] aims to contribute to the social integration of people who were hospitalized at least two consecutive years in a psychiatric hospital. This research aims to identify the impact of PVC, as well as the Continuous Benefit (BPC) to implement deinstitutionalization actions. For six months were used participant observation in two Therapeutic Residences located in Salvador-BA, Brazil, including informal conversations with professionals in these areas, as well as from the Center for Psychosocial Care (CAPS). We also carried out research of official documents relating to PVC. Data collected on daily routine in Residences suggest that there is bureaucratization and low autonomy on the use of money, besides the lack of effective strategies for the development of empowerment of PVC beneficiaries. There is a need for greater investment in continuing education for professionals, as well as significant strengthening of the so-called "Deinstitutionalization Strategies" provided by the Network for Psychosocial Care.
institutionalization; Mental Health; health policy; development of programs; deinstitutionalization