Griffith base hospital staff and Department of Family and Community Services workers are now supporting the woman and child, NSW police say

This article is more than 4 years old

This article is more than 4 years old

The mother of a two-day-old boy left on the doorstep of a New South Wales home at the weekend is being cared for after being found safe and well.

Residents discovered the newborn in a pink bassinet outside their front door in the Riverina town of Griffith just before midnight on Sunday after answering the doorbell.

Police launched a search for the baby’s mother, holding grave fears for her welfare.

The woman introduced herself at Griffith base hospital, police say. Officers were contacted and arrived a short time later.

Lily Grace inquest: coroner recommends use of 'baby boxes' at hospitals Read more

Investigators initially believed the mother was a teenager but it is understood she is over the age of 18.

Hospital staff and workers from the Department of Family and Community Services are now supporting her and the child.

The baby, believed to have been born on Friday morning, is healthy and well, local health authorities say. Police have issued a statement thanking the community for their assistance.

The case has reignited public debate about introducing drop-off boxes at NSW hospitals to allow mothers to anonymously leave unwanted infants.