Is it worth extending public liability and profl indemnity insurances while on bench?

[Relaxed]

Is there any reason to keep them continuous?

[MrMarkyMark]

Is there any reason to keep them continuous?

I believe you should keep it up, as you could, potentially, have a claim from work performed before.
Especially the PI, less sure about the public liability.
Small chance, but possible.

[NCOTBAC]

It's possible clients could find problems with what you've done after you've left so could be a real problem.

Also there is likely to be a charge for cancelling earlier than the full-term so could put you out of pocket if you get a quick gig.

Is the cost really worth it???

IMO a good contractor shouldn't be planning what to do if they should be on the bench, particularly to a few 10s of pounds like this. The should be concentrating on getting a good warchest in the company bank account and planning how NOT to get stuck on the bench.

[SimonMac]

Is there any reason to keep them continuous?

Do you expect to work again this year? If so then why would you not