Bureaucratic Delays Threaten Recovery for Formerly Homeless Residents in Tenerife

Moving from extreme social exclusion to independent living is one of the toughest challenges for local government. A recent report by Diario de Avisos highlights the case of José Manuel, who spent nearly 20 years living in caves in the Santos ravine in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. His story reveals the ongoing bureaucratic hurdles that people face even after they are finally moved into supervised housing.

José Manuel’s life has been defined by severe addiction and schizophrenia, which led to repeated psychotic episodes and time in prison. Since his release this past January, the city’s Social Services department has helped him move into a home near Don Quijote Park. This change has significantly improved his physical health and ensured he receives the consistent psychiatric care he needs to reintegrate into society.

However, his stability is now threatened by a lack of money. While the City Council covers his basic housing costs, José Manuel reports long delays in receiving government financial aid, such as the Minimum Vital Income or non-contributory pensions. Because of these delays, he still relies on soup kitchens and the informal help of acquaintances to survive. This highlights a clear gap: providing a roof over someone’s head is not enough if they lack the funds for daily essentials.

Sociologists often point to "Housing First" models, which argue that secure housing must be the foundation for any successful recovery. While Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers various resources—including shelters and landlord mediation—the path to true independence depends on how quickly social protection systems can act. Without immediate access to a basic income, vulnerable individuals remain at risk, which can undo the progress made in their recovery.