This paper draws on three studies conducted in Australia, Canada and Ireland which explore the factors influencing research utilisation in the child protection sector in each country. The paper recognises that research uptake is complicated by a number of factors. It also acknowledges critiques which cite the equally significant influence of ideologies, context, unpredictability, time constraints and political expediency. However, all three studies recognised the increasing importance of evidence‐based practice. The methods used in the three studies were not identical but the frameworks used were sufficiently similar to enable the classification of both common and dissimilar barriers and facilitators to research use. Those which they identified were categorised into four types: individual, organisational, environmental and characteristics relating to the nature of research material. Implications were identified for policy makers, service providers and research producers. The point was made that we now live in a period where unprecedented means of knowledge transfer and exchange provide unique opportunities to improve the lives of children and families. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. ‘All three studies recognised the increasing importance of evidence‐based practice’ Key Practitioner Messages Avail of opportunities to attend learning events.Draw on research findings when conducting assessments, writing reports, devising intervention plans, evaluating programmes and tendering for funding.Establish links with research centres.Become involved in the conduct of research.Support colleagues (champions) who display particular interest and motivation in the use of research evidence by recognising and/or rewarding effort.Avail of opportunities to undertake further study that includes a research component. ‘Establish links with research centres’