Former armed forces personnel and commissioners have to navigate more than 2,100 charities, making it difficult to find and allocate help, says a new report from the Howard League for Penal Reform.

The report, which looks at the problems those in the armed forces can face when making the transition to civilian life, found individuals trying to find help have to navigate a “bewildering array” of voluntary sector organisations, whose work and resettlement practices vary widely.

The report also warns it is difficult for those commissioning services for veterans in the criminal justice system to know what charities offer and which organisations are effective.

Frances Crook, director of the Howard League for Penal Reform said: “In the course of our examination of the support given to veterans on leaving the services, we have found there is a staggering number of charities who work with veterans.

"While in one sense this is welcome and shows the commitment the public have to supporting veterans’ causes, it does make for a very difficult landscape for veterans and service commissioners to navigate.

“The list of voluntary sector organisations working with veterans features everything from the regimental benevolent funds and household names such as the Royal British Legion to a plethora of small organisations.”