A father who suffered catastrophic injuries in a DIY fall at his home in January remains in hospital months later. Scott Blankley, a 47-year-old experienced construction worker from Bristol, fell three storeys while painting an external wall for a loft conversion.
Scott broke 11 ribs, his collarbone, and several vertebrae, and also suffered a brain bleed and damage to his lung and kidney. He was rushed to Southmead Hospital in Bristol, where part of his skull was removed to allow doctors to assess the bleed. He had to learn to walk, talk, and swallow again.
Scott’s brother Kai Blankley has launched a fundraising appeal to support Scott and his family, including his partner Jo and their two children, Annabel, 11, and Finn, 9. A fundraiser, the Bristol Triathlon, is planned for July. Kai said: 'Scott is still fighting. A fall that would have killed many has become another mountain to climb.'
The No Falls Foundation is working with the family to raise awareness about the dangers of working at height. Charity manager Hannah Williams said: 'Many people may think a fall from height results in just a broken limb, but the reality is much more severe. As well as life-changing injuries, individuals often struggle with mental health issues such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression.'
Peter Bennett OBE, Chair of the No Falls Foundation, added: 'Our hearts go out to Scott and his family. His journey highlights just how fragile life can be when we leave the ground. Taking a few minutes to assess a risk isn't a sign of weakness—it's the difference between a normal day and a tragedy.'
