Companions tampering with the sample (9)

I believe the answer is:

helpmates

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'companions' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'tampering with the sample' is the wordplay.
'the sample' anagrams to 'HELPMATES'.
Though, I'm not sure how this is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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