Ophir Solutions

Ophir Solutions and the Snooza chair: therapeutic furniture manufactured in the UK

Ophir Solutions Ltd is a British company that designs and manufactures specialised furniture for children and adults with postural and sensory needs. Its main product is the Snooza chair, a soft seat conceived as a sanctuary space and sensory experience. The company presents itself as a manufacturer and offers service throughout mainland Great Britain.

The Snooza chair

The Snooza is described as a soft seating solution that aims to promote behavioural change, relaxation, social inclusion and maintaining a safe mid-line position. It is designed for people with seizures, cognitive impairment, increased tactile sensitivity, low or high muscle tone, muscle spasms or reduced postural stability, among other conditions.

The design combines softness, flexibility, support and rigidity. It incorporates a system that, according to the company, mimics a hug through close body contact, which promotes calm and well-being. The high armrests and snug side supports ensure firm support without restricting breathing. The low centre of gravity and internal contours aim for optimal posture, even in users with deformities or severe scoliosis.

The chair is made from medical-grade vinyl, wipe-down surfaces and a breathable, washable comfort wrap. It is lightweight and portable, with built-in storage pockets. It is supplied with a removable, washable seat cover, a base wedge for positioning, a headrest and a lap belt as standard equipment. Optional extras include tray tables with Velcro fixings, pommels and leg rests, mobile base, side infills and backrests.

The company states that the original concept comes from the New Zealand company Rolapal and that the product has accumulated over 15 years of success, mainly in Australasia, distributed by Permobil. The chair is also sold through a network of authorised dealers.

Benefits and areas of use

Among the benefits the company attributes to the Snooza are reduced anxiety and distraction, increased participation, function and communication, and improved concentration. It is presented as suitable for schools, therapy sessions, family gatherings, holidays and quiet spaces. It can also be used as a functional seat for activities with laptops, tablets or gaming consoles.

The company lists specific applications: autism, cerebral palsy and epilepsy, where it helps relieve discomfort from spasms and promotes independent movement; neurological conditions, providing sensory feedback that reduces anxiety and improves self-regulation; ADHD and challenging behaviours, as a non-restrictive "time out" option in homes and classrooms; muscular dystrophy, where effective posture can influence less complex future outcomes; and dementia, where a familiar and safe space can reduce anxiety.

Other products: Guardian and complementary catalogue

In addition to the Snooza, Ophir Solutions sells the Guardian, a door handle with a physical barrier function for people with wandering behaviours. It is designed to prevent an individual from opening a door that should not be opened, for their safety, and is aimed at young children or people with Alzheimer's or dementia who may unintentionally access dangerous places, causing anxiety for parents, patients and caregivers.

The company's catalogue also includes cushions, chairs, stools, tables, the Snoezle Pod, mini ramps and accessories. The Snooza range is completed with the Floor Chair, Air Chair, Astra Chair, Rackus Chair and Wooble Stool variants, as well as manual slings.

Service, assessment and distribution

Ophir Solutions offers a free assessment of the Snooza chair and maintains a network of authorised dealers. The company states that it offers service throughout mainland Great Britain; customers requiring delivery outside that area are contacted to apply an alternative carriage charge. The stated aim is to deliver within seven working days for items in stock, although as a manufacturer orders may be made to order and it recommends allowing up to four weeks. After placing the order, the customer receives an email with the delivery date.

The returns policy requires inspecting the goods on arrival and noting any damage on the carrier's delivery note before signing, or marking "unexamined" if inspection is not possible. Any damage must be reported within 24 hours of receipt. Returns require a completed form and a returns authorisation number provided by the company. Returns of made-to-order, made-to-measure or bespoke products are not accepted. Cancellation after 24 hours incurs costs.

Resources and recognition

The Ophir Solutions website includes resource sections with information on grants, case studies, VAT exemption details, videos (coming soon) and clinical reasoning. The company collects customer reviews; among them are positive experiences with representative Randall at exhibitions such as Kidz to Adultz, and the clarity of the measuring and ordering process is highlighted, as well as satisfaction with the final product.

Location and contact

Phone: 01622 801 401 · Email: sales@ophirsolutions.co.uk