Weighing a contract offer against waiting after 18 years as an electrician's helper

I got a contract offer for 18 months as an electrician's helper and I am unsure whether to accept. I would gain recent experience. How did you handle benefits?

I took a contract and it converted after four months. The time also kept my skills current.

If savings are low, I would accept and keep applying. You can leave for a permanent role if one appears.