A TRANSGENDER Southampton charity are 'flying the flag' in aid of national awareness week.

Chrysalis, a charity tackling transgender isolation, are introducing their #FlyTheTransFlag campaign for National Trans Awareness Week and Transgender Day of Remembrance.

The trans support charity is asking people across Hampshire to show their solidarity with the community by flying the pink and blue flag.

This is the second time Chrysalis have ran this campaign and last year they saw Hampshire County Council and Solent University waving the flag for Transgender Day of Remembrance.

CEO of Chrysalis, Andi Maratos, has been the CEO for two years.

They said: "It is about making a safe space - it is a really simple way to say it is okay to be you.

"Most people would not notice, but if one person does notice, its that feeling of being welcome and safe."

Andi shared a quote of someone who saw the trans flag: "Walking past Southampton Guildhall this morning I see a trans flag flying.

"Honestly the first time I’ve seen such support outside of a meet or pride event - so I think that’s pretty great.”

Andi added: "That quote is why I do it - it is a really clear signal to people that trans are included.

"People ask 'what can I do?' I say to just be an ally and support trans people."

Trans Awareness Week is between November 12 and November 19 and is a celebration for trans people and their allies.

It provides an opportunity to raise the visibility of trans people and the challenges they face through prejudice, discrimination and violence.

Transgender Day of Remembrance is on November 20 and is an international event providing a moment for everyone to stand united in a safe environment; to remember all those who have lost their lives through acts of hate-crime in the past year.

Chrysalis are offering flags in return for donations, as well as listing your business or organisation on their website as a trans ally.

For a £5 donation they will post you a trans flag pin.

For a £20 donation they will post you a trans flag.

They are now offering a poster to hang up in your office, home or window.

To make a donation visit the campaign page at https://www.gofundme.com/f/flythetransflag