The Charity was founded by the Will of the late Lionel Annesley Dorant (1880-1942), who was in business in St. Albans as a land and property agent during the first part of the 20th Century. Under the provisions of his Will, the purpose of the Charity was to provide residential accommodation for ‘poor people of good character’ living within the former City of St. Albans. This residential qualification was considered too restrictive, so in 1985 with the consent of the Charity Commission, the area was changed to cover the whole of the City and District of St. Albans.

The original trustees were local businessmen and women and a number of serving councillors. It was decided to build a home to provide accommodation, principally for the elderly. The opening ceremony of Dorant House in 1980 was a great occasion, attended by the Mayor and many local dignitaries. The first residents of Dorant House had already taken up occupation and very proudly took visitors to their flats and on a tour of the building.

There are eleven studio and eight one-bedroom flats on three floors, with lift access. There is a large communal lounge for relaxation, conversation and social occasions, with its own kitchen. A laundry room negates the necessity for individual washing machines. A wheel-chair accessible shower-room is available. At all times, residents can summon help from the warden or call-centre. Dorant House stands in its own grounds which are tended by the warden and interested residents, with normal garden maintenance carried out by a local contractor. The gardens provide a relaxed sitting area on sunny days.