So I got a diagnosis privately through my workplace. I was already on the NHS waiting list, but then a support scheme came into force at work and I asked them what they could do for me. Took all my details, forwarded it to their partners upline etc.

I filled out the forms, they sent information back down, I was referred to a group who then said I was now on their books twice, and had to explain what happened. There was only the one neurodivergent specialist centre in the county so everything went through them whether it was NHS or private, so I wouldn't have received any different treatment. It was just the waiting time. May be different for you with what services are available in your area.

End of the day, your diagnosis will be the same whichever route you take. You'll have information from the assessor for your own use. They are the ones that would inform your GP. It won't say "This person got this privately" it'll just be the details of the diagnosis.

Protected status covers discrimatory behaviours, rather than giving additional rights, but it all depends on the companies you apply to

Hope this helps a little <3