How can followers of the UK’s fastest growing religion prove their beliefs are sincere? According to the national census, the number of British people who say they follow Shamanism as a religion has risen twelvefold in the space of 10 years. While the numbers are still low – at around 8,000 followers - the increase has put pressure on those who have followed the practice for years. Without a clear set of beliefs and a central organisation, the practice of Shamanism itself has its roots in different parts of the world. How do experienced Shamanic practitioners ensure their belief is not hijacked by those whose motives are not purely spiritual? The BBC’s Amber Haque visits a British shaman to find out what Shamanism is, what it means to her and her circle of believers and why they think it should be taken seriously. Presenter: Amber Haque Producer: Rob Cave Production co-ordinator: Mica Nepomuceno Editor: Helen Grady

Personal approaches to spirituality from around the world. Heart and Soul is a weekly half-hour programme that has the scope and understanding to explore different experiences of spirituality from around the world. Whether examining religious faith or any other belief-system, the programme talks to believers and non-believers, and tries to get beyond superficial notions of spirituality and religion.