Question: What is the 'good work' campaign about?

John Earls: As we're in an environment of relatively full employment, it's important not only that people are in work but that they have decent jobs.

Beyond the important work that trade unionists do improving standards at work, we're campaigning for not only meeting our members' needs at work but for optimising their full potential.

One of the ways Amicus has tried to do this is to identify the key elements that go towards a fulfilling and decent job.

Question: What is the significance of launching your report on May Bank Holiday?

John Earls: Traditionally, it celebrates the achievements of trade unionists and this includes the way we have protected employees.

It is also significant as it is the 100th anniversary of the 1906 Trade Disputes Act and British trade unionists will be marching to campaign for a Trade Union Freedom Bill to ensure that trade unions can continue to work effectively for decent work standards.

But we also want fulfilling jobs that optimise people's talents.

Question: In terms of the quality of life within the workplace, what are the aspects employers sometimes forget to look at?

In the 'Amicus agenda for better jobs' we've identified five elements we believe should be at the heart of 'good work' and that we hope stakeholders will review.

These are a safe and healthy workplace, control over the working environment, secure and interesting work including support for skills and learning, dignity at work and a trade union voice.

These are the five areas that need to be considered in improving the quality of people's working lives.

Question: What is at stake for employees and employers if they don’t take notice of the 'good work' agenda?

John Earls: The quality of working life is essential, not just for individual health and well-being but there is an important link between work, well-being and organisational performance.

It also chimes with a number of government policy agendas such as 'high performance workplaces' and 'health and well-being in the workplace'.

'Good work' needs to be at the centre of the policy and negotiating agendas.

This is part of our contribution. We want to work with employers over these key issues in a way that enhances our members' aspirations for rewarding work but also in a way that meets their aspirations to work for a successful organisation.

Question: Do you believe that these five points can be taken forward and by companies?

John Earls: The best employers are already doing a lot, but there's always room for improvement.

Some of this is not new. Trade unions have long pursued the improvement of people's working experience, but the environment we now do it in is different.

We want to improve people's working lives in the modern workplace.

Question: How would you sum up your message?

John Earls: If I were to distil the key elements that make up 'good work' I would say that it is rewarding, fulfilling and in balance with the rest of our lives.

This is an aspirational agenda for workers, employers and government. And Amicus is working to help meet those aspirations.