Offence seriousness can be determined by reference to the NPCC Child Gravity Matrix. Most offences are given a score of 1, 2, 3 or 4 depending on their seriousness. The score may be raised or lowered by one point only according to aggravating, mitigating and vulnerability factors that are set out in the Matrix. The NPCC Child Gravity Matrix is used to determine whether children should be considered for out of court disposals. It is possible to deviate from the normal response as dictated by the matrix, however, the decision-maker must record the reasons that justify such a deviation.