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The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) has welcomed APA Parafricta as a new member, which manufactures garments and bedding to prevent pressure injuries.
The BHTA recently caught up with Claire Cotes, Managing Director at APA Parafricta, to learn more about how the firm’s patented low-friction garments and bedding prevent pressure injuries and how BHTA membership offers valuable advice and guidance on challenges such as net zero compliance and the Drug Tariff Renewal process.
Claire originally qualified as a chartered management accountant while working at Black and Decker, after completing a business studies degree in Newcastle. After having children, she worked part-time as the office manager for a local builder and then ran her own catering business.
This background in finance and business led to Claire joining APA Parafricta in January 2020, during covid. She became Managing Director in 2022.
“Working in the healthcare industry has certainly reassured me I didn’t miss my calling as a nurse, and I have nothing but admiration for anyone working in a clinical role,” she added.
Claire explained that while most people would, unsurprisingly, assume that pressure ulcers are caused solely by pressure, friction and the associated shearing is actually a big part of the process.
As a manufacturer of garments and bedding to prevent pressure injuries, Claire said that APA Parafricta is the only company to focus on this.
“We developed and patented our unique low-friction fabric, and this is the main component in all of our undergarments, bootees, and bed sheets. We have hospitals who have used the bootees for over 10 years and have never had a hospital acquired heel pressure ulcer whilst using them, so we know they work!”
Claire also commented that she has spoken to tissue viability nurses who have remarked that using APA Parafricta’s undergarments have “literally changed their wheelchair users’ lives” by stopping recurrent pressure ulcers.
“It’s hugely satisfying to know that our products actually make such a difference,” continued Claire. “The products are washable and reusable and are available on FP10.”
Claire noted some of the difficulties around net zero demands and carbon reduction plans for SMEs and how the BHTA can support in these areas.
She explained: “Demands for net zero and carbon reduction plans are constantly looming, and the expectation seems to be to spend thousands on consultancy, despite the NHS claiming to be SME-friendly. I’m very aware of “not knowing what I don’t know” so I hope the BHTA will be useful for that.”
Claire added that BHTA membership was recommended to her by an associate for the purpose of expert guidance through the new Drug Tariff Renewal process.
“When trying to achieve adoption into new hospital trusts, “not invented here syndrome” is a recurring issue, which I know other companies face, and we certainly can’t overcome that issue alone,” Claire added.
Looking ahead, APA Parafricta is looking forward to all of the events arranged for Stop the Pressure week (17-21 November 2025). In addition, Claire said that the company is constantly exploring ways to improve its products and make them relevant to a wider audience.
To find out more about how the BHTA can support your business and how to become a BHTA member, visit this page.